Letters Of Queen Victoria A Selection Form Her Majestys Correspondence And Journal Between The Years 1886and1901

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THE

LETTERS OF QUEEN VICTORIA

THIRD SERIES

VOL. lit

Other Volumi oi\ Queen ViPtotm

THE LETTERS 01' QUEEN
VICTORIA

A Sricction ftom Hei Majeity’b Corrfsjiouclincc
lietween tho years i^sy-xf^bt KJittd by A C
KiiNboN and Viscount Ebiiru, ftCD^ OCVO
Published by Authority of His Majesty the King
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SECOND SERIES A Selection from Hci Majesty's
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and 1885 Pubbshed by Authority of Hib Maiebty
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IliustratjoHS Vols I and II (1862-1978), £2 12s 6d ,
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THIRD SERIES A Selection from Her Majesty's
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the icing Edited by GcoRcr Earlr Bu cklie With
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THE LETTERS OF
QUEEN VICTORIA

TfflRD SERIES

A SELECTION FROM HER MAJESTY’S
CORRESPONDENCE AND JOURNAL BETWEEN
THE YEARS 1886 and 1901

PUBLISHED BY AUrHORITY OF

HIS MAJESTY THE KING

EDITED BY GEORGE EARLE BUCKLE

UDl'i'OK 01 TUB BBOONC BlilUltB

IN THREE VOLUMES
VOL. Ill
1896-1901

LONDON

JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE STREET, W,
1982

OopyrigM in Great Britain, tlie Dominions, Oolonica
and Dependenoiea, including Ireland, 1032, by
H.M. Tim Kino

All rights reserved

Printed in Great J3ri/ain by
Batellf WaUon <fc Viney, XAd,y Zomion and AyUshnry.

PREFACE

This volume brings The Letters of Queen Victoria to
a close. The enterprise which King Edward started
and King George has carried through is now complete.
In nine substantial volumes — three series of three
volumes each — ^there lies open for the public and
posterity a continuous presentation of the great
Queen, in her correspondence and journal, from even
before her accession in June 1837 down to her death
in January 1901. Here, extracted from the Windsor
Archives, are materials of absolute authenticity and
trustworthiness for the reign and the personality of
the most beloved, and one of the most renowned, of
the long line of English monarchs.

In one respect the two latter series, covering the
years 1862-1901, for which the present Editor is
responsible, are more informative about her Majesty’s
character and capacity than the first series. During
the Prince Consort’s life, the absolute confidence
which the Queen before long came to repose in her
husband’s judgment makes it often difficult to
distinguish her action and sentiments from his. After
his death, though no widow ever endeavoured more
faithfully to carry out unaltered the policy and
views of the departed, a gradual emancipation from

VI

PREFACE

his influence was incvilahle. No other sinf^ic in-
fluence took its place. After her Majesty’s children
had grown to manhood and womanhood, she took
counsel with several of them, now and again, mainly
on special subjects ; towards the close of her reign,
more and more with the Prince of Wales. She
placed considerable reliance on her successive Private
Secretaries, General Grey, Sir Henry Ponsonby, and
Sir Arthur Bigge — especially on Sir Henry Ponsonby,
who held the post for a quarter of a century.
Among her Ministers there were two in whom she had
great confidence, one after the other, Lord Beacons-
field and Lord Salisbury. But she had serious
differences with both ; and with both, on occasion
after occasion, she ultimately carried her point.
Thus no Prince or Princess, no Secretary or Minister,
became a dominating influence. While, in conlem-
plaLing her married life, we may wonder whcbhc]' it is
not the Prince Consort {rather than the Queen herself)
who is speaking through the Queen’s moutli or writing
by the Queen’s pen, we feel, when we come to the latter
half of the reign, that we are hearing or reading her
Majesty’s authentic utterance. The habits and the
way of life persisted, and the memories of the past
were carefully cherished, but the independence of
thought and the individuality of character are
unmistakable. These quahties shone out conspicu-
ously in the Queen’s action and correspondence
during the Boer War in her last year of life ; indeed,
such were her force of character and devotion to duty
that, in face of increasing physical weakness, she
carried on her constitutional functions to within a few
days of the end.

The Editor may perhaps be allowed to repeat here,
and adopt as his own, the appropriate words with
which in 1907 his predecessors. Dr. Arthur Benson

PRETTACE

Vll

and the 2nd Lord Esher, concluded their original
preface to The Letters of Queen Victoria :

It is a deeply inspiring spectacle to see one
surrounded by every temptation which worldly
greatness can present, living from day to day so
simple, vivid, and laborious a life ; and it is impos-
sible to conceive a more fruitful example of duty
and affection and energy, displayed on so august
a scale, and in the midst of such magnificent
surroundings. We would venture to believe that
nothing could so deepen the personal devotion of
the Empire to the memory of that great Queen
who ruled it so wisely and so long, and its deeply-
rooted attachment to the principle of constitu-
tional monarchy, as the gracious act of his Majesty
the King in allowing the inner side of that noble
life and career to be more clearly revealed to a
nation whose devotion to their ancient liberties
is inseparably connected with their loyalty to
the Throne.

EDITORIAL NOTE

The genealogical table of Queen Victoria’s descendants,
which was appended to the third volume of the Original
Series, has been brought up to date and reproduced at the
end of this volume. To meet the convenience of readers, it
gives the pet names in use in the Royal Family — names
which so frequently recur in her Majesty’s journal and
letters.

The Editor’s obligations to those who have given him
friendly and valuable help in preparing the Third Series
for the press have already been acknowledged in detail in
the previous volumes. He can only reiterate, on this final
occasion, his warm gratitude to all : to the King’s Private
Secretary, to the guardians of the Windsor Archives, and to
the Publishers.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER XII

1896 pp. 1-110

The Jameson Raid — Mr. Chamberlain’s action — Kaiser’s
telegram to President Kruger — Queen’s indignation — And
Prince of Wales’s — Queen’s letter to Kaiser — Mr. Rhodes
resigns Cape Premiership — Sir TI. Robinson in Pretoria —
Queen’s message to Mr. Kruger — ^Flying Squadron mobilised
— ^Lord Wolseley’s views — ^Mr. Goschcn explains Flying
Squadron-— Kaiser’s reply to Queen — Question of suKcrainty
— Prince Henry of Batlonberg ill— Lord Salisbury on Kaiser
— Great Britain and Alliances — King Leopold and Lord Salis-
bury — ^Dcalh of Prince Henry — Qucen’.s grief -Hi'. Jamc.son
and his olTiccrs — Royal Victorian Order -- Prince Henry’s
body brought liome in warship — Qiieen and TJiiimes Hoods—
Nile advance sanctioned-— -Debate in Commons - Queen and
Emperor of Austria — Government ICdueation Bill —England
and Russia — ^Dcath sentences at Pretoria — IlcmlUed after
protest — Queen on education — Loi'd Robcri,s’s Warrior
Charger — ^Troubles of Queen Maria Christina— Coronatioji at
Moscow — Followed by disaster — ^Debate on Jameson Raid —
Battle of Firlcet — Cabinet and Mr, Rlioclcs — ^Education Bill
to be dropped — Queen’s protest — But Cabinet persist — ■
Commons and Chartered Company — Greece and Crete — ^I/i
Hung Chang at Osborne — Queen and Lord Wolseley on Indian
Army — ^Dr. Jameson’s officers depi'ived of their commissions
— Queen’s eyesight — Crisis at Zanzibar — ^Death of Prince
Lobanoff — Queen’s Hindustani lessons — Queen on Mr. Bal-
four — Mr. Chamberlain on America — Bishop Davidson on
Queen’s reign — Tsar at Balraoral^ — Queen reigns longer than
any predecessor — Dongola reoccupied — -Conversations with
Tsar — Queen and Prince “ David ” of York— Lord Salisbury
and Tsar — An early “ moving picture ” — Visit of Tsar to
France — ^Death of Archbishop Benson — Queen’s sympathy
— Lord Salisbury on choice of successor — Queen’s views —

viii

CONTENTS

IX

Dr. Temple new Archbishop— Dr. Creighton for see of London
— ^Venezuela clifficnlty approaching settlement — ^Dr. Jameson
released — Kaiser’s seasonable wishes.

CHAPTER XIII

1897 pp. 111--218

Plague in Bombay — Kaiser and the Jubilee — New
battalions and new conditions for the Guards — Coventry and
the Jubilee — ^Lord Mayor and the Jubilee — Greece and the
Powers — The Prince and London hospitals — “ Diamond
Jubilee ” — ^Lord Salisbury’s suggestions — Sir Alfred Milner
for South Africa — ^No crowned heads asked for Jubilee —
Proposals for outdoor service before St. Paul’s — ^Autonomy
suggested for Crete — India and the Jubilee — Germany violent
against Greece — ^Empress Frederick’s views — ^Lord Salis-
bury’s comment — Queen appeals to King of Denmark —
Definite policy adopted — Dr. Davidson on Jubilee arrange-
ments — Queen meets President Faure — Powers blockade
Crete — Queen sees Emperor Francis Joseph — Sir Arthur
Sullivan and Jubilee music — Turko-Greck War — Sarah Bern-
hardt acts before the Queen — ^Defeat of Greeks — Queen
appeals to Tsar — And brings pressure on King of Greece —
Charity bazaar catastrophe in Paris — Queen telegraphs to
Kaiser about armistice — His “ rude ” answer — Queen urges
Greece to yield — Orders sent to recall Greek troops from Crete
— ^Australia and Federation — Queen’s birthday — Colonial
troops for Jubilee — Colonial Premiers to be Privy Councillors
— Prince of Wales and Jubilee — Service in St. George’s
Chapel — Queen goes to London — ^Hearty reception — Greeting
of family and guests — Jubilee Day — The procession through
London — ^Enthusiastic welcome — Service outside St. Paul’s
— ^Return south of the Thames — ^Indian celebrations — And
earthquakes — Congratulatory letters — ^Addresses from both
Houses — Welcome by children in Hyde Park — ^Return to
Windsor — ^Review of Colonial troops — Party for House of
Commons at Windsor — ^Bishop Creighton’s impressions of the
Jubilee — ^Duke of Connaught’s military claims — Commons
debate on South Africa — ^What order for King of Siam ? — His
reception at Osborne — Jubilee expenses — ^Duke and Duchess
of York’s visit to Ireland — ^The Nizam and the Queen —
Indian frontier fighting — Queen’s anxiety — ^Affection and
respect for “ Georgie and May ” — Queen and her native

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER XII

1896 pp. 1-110

The Jameson Raid — Mr. Chamberlain’s action — Kaiser’s
telegram to President Kruger — Queen’s indignation — ^And
Prince of Wales’s — Queen’s letter to Kaiser — Mr. Rhodes
resigns Cape Premiership — Sir H. Robinson in Pretoria —
Queen’s message to Mr. Kruger — ^Flying Squadron mobilised
— ^Lord Wolselcy’s views — ^Mr. Goschen explains Flying
Squadron — Kaiser’s reply to Queen — Question of suzerainty
— Prince Henry of Battenberg ill — Lord Salisbury on Kaiser
— Great Britain and Alliances — King Leopold and Lord Salis-
bury — ^Dcath of Pjince Henry — Queen’s grief — Hr. JamCwSon
and his officers — ^Royal Victorian Order — Prince Henry’s
body brought liomc in warship — Queen and Thames floods —
Nile advance sanctioned — Debate in Commons — Queen and
Emperor of Austria — Government Education Bill — England
and Russia — Death sentences at Pretoria — Remitted after
protest — Queen on education — Lord Roberts’s Warrior
Charger — ^Troubles of Queen 'Maria Christina — Coronation at
Moscow — Followed by disaster — ^Debate on Jameson Raid —
Battle of Firket — Cabinet and Mr. Rhodes — ^Education Bill
to be dropped — Queen’s protest — ^But Cabinet persist —
Commons and Chartered Company — Greece and Crete — ^Li
Hung Chang at Osborne — Queen and Lord Wolseley on Indian
Army — ^Dr. Jameson’s officers deprived of their commissions
— Queen’s eyesight — Crisis at Zanzibar — ^Death of Prince
Lobanoff — Queen’s Hindustani lessons — Queen on Mr. Bal-
four — Mr. Chamberlain on America — Bishop Davidson on
Queen’s reign — Tsar at Balmoral — Queen reigns longer than
any predecessor — ^Dongola reoccupied — Conversations with
Tsar — ^Queen and Prince “ David ” of York — Lord Salisbury
and Tsar — ^An early “ moving picture ” — ^Visit of Tsar to
France — ^Death of Archbishop Benson — Queen’s sympathy
— Lord Salisbury on choice of successor — Queen’s views —

viii

CONTENTS

IX

Dr. Temple new Archbishop— Dr. CreighLon for sec of London
— ^Venezuela difficulty approaching settlement — ^Dr. Jameson
released — Kaiser’s seasonable wishes.

CHAPTER Xin

1897 pp. 111-218

Plague in Bombay — ^Kaiser and the Jubilee — ^New
battalions and new conditions for the Guards — Coventry and
the Jubilee — ^Lord Mayor and the Jubilee — Greece and the
Powers — ^The Prince and London hospitals — “ Diamond
Jubilee ” — ^Lord Salisbury’s suggestions — Sir Alfred Milner
for South Africa — No crowned heads asked for Jubilee —
Proposals for outdoor service before St. Paul’s — ^Autonomy
suggested for Crete — India and the Jubilee — Germany violent
against Greece — ^Empress Frederick’s views — ^Lord Salis-
bury’s comment — Queen appeals to King of Denmark —
Definite policy adopted — ^Dr. Davidson on Jubilee arrange-
ments — Queen meets President Faure — ^Powers blockade
Crete — Queen sees Emperor Francis Joseph — Sir Arthur
Sullivan and Jubilee music — ^Tiuko-Greek War — Sarah Bern-
hardt acts before the Queen — ^Defeat of Greeks — Queen
appeals to Tsar — And brings pressure on King of Greece —
Charity bazaar catastrophe in Paris — Queen telegraphs to
Kaiser about armistice — ^His “ rude ” answer — Queen urges
Greece to yield — Orders sent to recall Greek troops from Crete
— Australia and Federation — Queen’s birthday — Colonial
troops for Jubilee — Colonial Premiers to be Privy Councillors
— Prince of Wales and Jubilee — Service in St. George’s
Chapel — Queen goes to London — ^Hearty reception — Greeting
of family and guests — ^Jubilee Day — ^The procession through
London — Enthusiastic welcome — Service outside St. Paul’s
— ^Return south of the Thames — Indian celebrations — And
earthquakes — Congratulatory letters — ^Addresses from both
Houses — ^Welcome by children in Hyde Park — ^Return to
Windsor — ^Review of Colonial troops — Party for House of
Commons at Windsor — ^Bishop Creighton’s impressions of the
Jubilee — ^Duke of Connaught’s military claims — Commons
debate on South Africa — ^What order for King of Siam ? — ^His
reception at Osborne — Jubilee expenses — ^Duke and Duchess
of York’s visit to Ireland — ^The Nizam and the Queen —
Indian frontier fighting — Queen’s anxiety — Affection and
respect for “ Georgia and May ” — Queen and her native

X

CONTENTS

Iroops — ^DcaLli of Duchess of Tcck — .rulhlec luslilulc of
Nurses — Queen and military reform — A Cabinel C'onunil Ice—
Scheme accepted by Cabinet-— Queen not salisficd — Lord
Elgin juslilics frontier wars — A Colonial Premier and the
Queen’s portrait.

CHAPTER XTV

1898 pp. 219-327

“ Matured soldiers ” — Queen and the Press — The next
Viceroy — Queen and Rev. Cosmo Lang — Queen and convents
— ^New Zealand and Dulce of York — ^The Duke and U.S, Navy
— ^Duke of Norfolk on convents — ^Appeal from Queen Maria
Christina — Port Arthur and Wei-hai-wei — Cabinet and Russia
— Spain and United States — ^President Fame and Queen’s
portrait — ^Battle of Atbara — ^M. Paure visits Queen — Nether-
lands Queen at Cimie? — ^Honours for native Indians — ^Doath
of Mr. Gladstone — Queen’s sympathy — Prince of Montenegro
at Balmoral — Funeral of Mr. Gladstone — Queen on Vicci’oy’s
duties — Queen and Dr. .Jameson’s olficers — •Debate on foreign
policy — Speech by Mr. Chamhcrlain — Kaiser and England —
Injiu’y to Prince of Wales ’.s leg — Lord SnlLsbiuy and Mr.
Chamberlain — Policy in the I’lmjah— And on Lh{‘ Nile— •
Queen visits Prince of Wales — ^liOrd Salisbury and the Kaiser
—Queen and the ])honograph — Spain and Gibrallar- Queen
and Sir R. Warhurton — ^Lord Curzon and frontier jiolicy —
Queen and Council of India — Queen Maria Christina and
Gibraltar — ^Mr. Balfour’s representations — Queen Wilhclmina
comes of age — Battle of Omduimatr — ^Ifaiser’s congratula-
tions — Service at Khartoum — ^Peerage for Sir H. Kitchener —
Outbreak in Crete — ^Empress of Austria assassinated — ^Imrd
Salisbury on Gibraltar — Queen and Queen Maria Christina —
The Powers and Crete — Sir II. Kitchener up the Wlrite Nile —
Finds M. Marchand at Fashoda — ^Hoists flag and returns to
Khartoum — Death of Queen of Denmark — Deadlock in
Anglo-French negotiations — ^Lord Salisbury and French
Ambassador — Queen and Army Bandmasters — Sir E. Brad-
ford on anarchist peril — ^Mr. Morley and the Life of Gladstone
— Queen’s views — Queen and Mecca pilgrimages — ^Fashoda
negotiations — ^M. Marchand at Khartoum — ^Russia and France
— Queen and India Office — ^H.M.’s anxiety about Anglo-
French relations — Lord Kitchener at Balmoral^ — ^Fashoda to
be evacuated — Queen congratulates Lord Salisbury — ^King
Menelek and Queen’s phonograph — ^Bandmasters’ commis-

CONTENTS

XI

sions — Qticcn and Lord Kitchener at Netley — M. Cainbon
succeeds M. de Courccl as Ambassador — ^Death of Sir William
Jenncr — ^Health of troops in Soudan—Lord Salisbury on
War Office — Kaiser and the Queen — Lord Dufferin on
England’s eminent position — ^Mr. Chamberlain and Colonial
Governors.

CHAPTER XV

1899 pp. 328-451

Gordon Memorial College at Khartoum — President Faure
and the Queen — Sir W. Harcourt and Protestantism —
Kaiser’s fortieth birthday — ^Death of Prince Alfred of Coburg
— ^Difficulties about Bandmasters’ commissions — Sir H. C.-
Bannerman as Liberal leader — ^Death of President Faure —
Queen, Tsar, and Kaiser — Progress of Australian Federation
— C.-in-C. and discipline of the Army — Queen’s anxiety —
Coburg succession — Mr. Rhodes and the Kaiser — ^Destruction
of Mahdi’s tomb — Correspondence between Lord Kitchener
and the Queen — Queen and Lord Salisbury on Army discipline
— Duke of Connaught and Coburg — Kaiser on Coburg — ^And
on Lord Salisbury — French feeling for the Queen — Petition
of Transvaal Uitlandcrs — ^Memorandum by Queen on C.-in-
C.’s position — Seven-day Journalism — ^Views of Dr. Temple
and Dr. Davidson — Lord Salisbury’s advice to Queen —
H.M.’s views — Lord Salisbury persists — Queen’s eightieth
birthday — ^Kaisej- and Samoa — Complains to Queen of Lord
Salisbury — Lord Salisbury’s reply — Queen’s letter to Kaiser
— Cabinet and Transvaal — Seven-day journalism abandoned
— Queen’s anxiety about Transvaal — ^Duke of Albany for
Coburg — ^The Dreyfus affair — Debate on Transvaal — ^Lord
Salisbury and our position abroad — Queen Wilhelmina on
fear of war — ^Dreyfus condemned by Rennes Court-martial —
Queen’s indignation — ^Military preparations in S, Africa —
Dreyfus liberated — ^British demands refused by Boers —
Reserve called out — Parliament summoned — ^England abused
by French press — ^Army in S. Africa to reach fOjOOO men —
Queen sees Sir Redvers Duller, their commander — ^Ultimatum
by Boer Government — ^British Colonies invaded — ^Mr. Cham-
berlain’s views — ^War strongly supported in Parliament —
Queen on suggested taxation — And on successful mobilisation
— Anxious situation in Natal — ^Loyalty of Canada, Australia,
and New Zealand — Sir G. White shut up in Ladysmith —
Samoan agreement with Germany — ^Bandmasters’ commis-

xii CONlEN'l’S

sions at last ! — Queen inspects Household Cavahy —German
Emperor and Empress at Windsor — Death of Lady Salisbury
— Queen and Kaiser — Queen and Count Billow — Khalifa
defeated and killed — ^Emperor and Empress at Sandringham
— Queen and Grenadiers — ^Battle of Modder River — ^Naval
Brigade at Ladysmith — Question of Delagoa Bay — A “ black
week ” — Stormberg, Magersfontein, Colenso — Lord Wolseley
on our Generals — Sir R. Buller’s despair about Ladysmith-
Directed by Cabinet to persevere — Queen’s spirit — ^Lord
Roberts to command in S. Africa — With Lord Kitchener
as Chief of Staff — Sir R. Wingate on the Queen — Tsar’s
sympathy — ^Duke of Connaught and the War — Kaiser’s
Christmas letter — ^Departure of Lord Roberts— Queen’s
Christmas tree for waves and children of soldiers — New Year
greetings from Kimberley.

CHAPTER XVI

1900 pp. 462-686

Hopes ibr the Now Year — ^Australia and (he Empire —
City of London Imperial Volunteers — Severe casualties in
officers — Untoward incidents — India and the War — Queen’s
chocolate for soldiers — ^Lord Roberts at- the Cape- “Australian
Federation — Prayci’s for use in war — Spion Kop-~Lord
Roberts’s plan — ^Military measures — The Queen’s urgency —
Fleet and mobilisation— Mafcking and the Qncen — Criticism
of Generals — Debate on war — ^Kaiser’s advice — Queen and
native forces — ^Relief of Kimberley — Capitulation of General
Cronje — Relief of Ladysmith — Congratulations— Queen’s tele-
grams — Creation of Irish Guards — Queen going to Ireland —
Irish regiments to wear shamrock — Queen and Kaiser —
Queen and Houses of Parliament — ^H.M.’s drives through
London — Spontaneous enthusiasm — Queen on terms of peace
— Lord Curzon on the war — ^Lord Roberts in Bloemfontein —
Lord Rosebery on Queen’s exertions — Prince of Wales and
Paris Exhibition — Congratulations from Kaiser — ^Ladies and
South Africa — Queen’s entry into Dublin — Cordial welcome —
At Viceregal Lodge — ^Prince shot at in Brussels — Queen,
Cabinet, and Lord Roberts on disasters — Queen at Dublin
Castle — Queen’s chocolate saves life — ^H.M.’s activities in
Ireland — Spion Kop despatches — Queen’s concern at publica-
tion — ^Memorandum by Lord Lansdowne — Sir G. 'V^ite at
Windsor — ^Visit of King and Queen of Sweden — ^Relief of

(.'ONlKlSrS

xiii

Mafeldng — Australian Federation Bill — ^Qneen’s eighty-fir-st
birthday — Lord Roberts in Pretoria — “ Boxer ” rising in
China — King Menelek and Queen Taitou — ^Anxiety about
Pcldn — ^Troops and ships for China — ^Lord Roberts on pros-
pects in S. Africa — Lord Hopetoun for Governor-General of
Australia — ^lihedive at Windsor — ^Hospitals in S. Africa —
Grave news as to Peldn Legations — International forces —
Queen’s failing health — ^Assassination of King Humbert —
Death of Duke of Cobmg — Queen’s scarves for Colonial
soldiers — Relief of Pekin Legations — Parliament to be dis-
solved — Duke and Duchess of York to visit Australia — Flight
of Mr. Kruger — Mr. Goschen to retire — Queen needs rest —
Lord Roberts for C.-in-C. — Queen’s disappointment — ^Duke
of Connaught’s claims — ^Lord Lansdowne to leave War Office
— ^The General Election — ^Lord Roberts on the situation — Sir
R. Bullcr coming home — ^The strain on the Queen — ^Lord
Salisbury on changes in Cabinet — Lord Lansdowne for
Foreign Office — Mr. Brodrick for War Office — Sanitary condi-
tion of Windsor town — King Leopold and Sipido — Death of
Prince Christian Victor — ^Lord ICitchener and Indian com-
mand — Queen seriously ill at Windsor — But continues at
work — Partial recovery — Inspects Australian troops — ^Promo-
tion for Lord Kitchener — ^Disembodiment of militia — Ques-
tion of enquiiy into war — Queen inspects Life Guards —
And Canadian troops — Queen’s anxiety about pay and pen-
sion of C,-in-C. — Continued illness — H.M.’s thanks to Militia,
Yeomanry, and Volunteers — ^Arrival at Osborne — ^Progress of
illness — Death of Lady Churchill — ^Bad nights and little food.

CHAPTER XVII

1901 (January) pp. 637-642

Sad New Year — Queen receives Lord Roberts on his
return — ^And gives him the Garter and an earldom — Sunday
service in drawing-room — ^Decorations for officers — ^Reception
of Mr. Chamberlain — ^Last days — Final illness and death.

Index ........ p. 643

Genealogical Table At end

The descendants of Queen Victoria.

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

VOL. Ill

II.M. Queen Victoria, 1899. From a picture by Von

Angeli in Windsor Castle .... Frontispiece

Lt.-Col. Sir Arthur Biqge, K.C.B., 1899. Afterwards
Lord Siamjordham, P.C., G.C.B., G.C.I.E.,

G.C.V.O. From a photograph by W. and I).

Downey, Ltd, ...... Facing

The Rt. IIon. Joserii Chamueuuain, M.P., ISO'L

From a photograph by Elliott and Fry, Ltd,

1 i

100

TiOiiu Kitchener on KiiAUTOuiyr, 1808. From, a
photograph by liussano. Lid. ....

t >

tirz

The MAROuia oe Salisuory, K.G., 1901. It'o'om- a
sketch by ID. Fuchs at Jluljlcld

if

im

H.R.H. THE Prince oe Wales, K.G., shortly before his
accession. From the original in the Royal
Library, Windsor ......

f >

4S4,

H.M. Queen Victohia at the Viceregal Lodge,
Dublin, 1000 . From a photograph by Aberncthy,
Belfast .......

91

C-14

Field-Marshal Earl Roberts, V.C., K.G. From a
sketch by Lady Feo Oleichen ....

GOO

XIV

INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO CHATTER XII

Duking the year 1896 Queen Victoria entered on the
last stage of her great career. On 23rd September she had
reigned longer than any of her predecessors, and there was
some disposition to make the day one of national celebration.
But her Majesty let it be known that in her view public
rejoicings ought to be deferred till 20th June 1897, when
the sixtieth year of her reign should be completed. In other
respects 1896 was for the Queen a year of mourning. Her
son-in-law, Prince Henry of Battenberg, to whom since his
marriage to Princess Beatrice and constant residence under
her Majesty’s roof she had become deeply attached, died of
fever on board ship on 20th January, having been invalided
from the Ashanti Expedition. .

With the opening of the year the storm broke in South
Africa. News came that Dr. Jameson, the Adm i nistrator of
the British South Africa Company’s territory, had crossed on
29th December the frontier into the Transvaal, at the head of
400 or 500 troopers, in order to assist the Uitlanders to
obtain by force the civil rights denied them by President
Kruger. Mr. Chamberlain, the Colonial Secretary, had
immediately telegraphed to Sir Hercules Robinson, the High
Commissioner for South Africa, repudiating the raid, and
directing that it should be stopped. But Dr. Jameson went
on till, on New Year’s Day, he met a Boer force near Krugers-
dorp ; and after a fight of several hours he and his troopers
were defeated and surrendered. Sir Hercules Robinson at
once proceeded to Pretoria. On his representations the
Johannesburg Reformers, who were not ready for action
when Dr. Jameson moved, laid down the arms which they
had since hurriedly taken up ; and President ICruger gave
up his prisoners — the raiders — ^to be put on trial by the
British Government. But he ordered the arrest of the
Uitlander leaders on a charge of high treason. Mr. Chamber-
lain endeavoured without success to get him to come to
England and make a reasonable settlement.

Mr. Rhodes, Prime Minister at the Cape, and Dr. Jameson’s
chief as Managing Director of the Chartered Company,
resigned his Premiership, came to London, and placed his
resignation as Managing Director in the Board’s hands. He
then went immediately to Matabeleland, and, largely by his
personal influence, succeeded after some months in crushing

1

8 INTRODUOTOllY NOTIO ItiiAi-. xfi

Ji serious native rebellion there. After trial at I’retoria, the
four chief Reform leaders, one of whom (Col. Frank Rhodes)
was Mr. Rhodes’s brother, were condemned to death — a
sentence which, after a strung protest from Mr. Chamberlain,
was commuted to fifteen years’ imprisonment (afterwards
much reduced) and a fine of £25,000 apiece. Fifty-nine
other Reformers were tried and fined £2,000 each. The
trial of Dr. Jameson and his principal fellow-raiders in
London resulted in July in a verdict of Guilty, but with a
rider that the state of things in Johannesbm’g presented
great provocation. Dr. Jameson was sentenced to fifteen
months’ imprisonment, but was released at the end of the
year on grounds of health. His five principal military
officers were sentenced to lesser terms, and (with Col. Rhodes)
were directed to resign their commissions in the Ai’my. A
Select Committee of the House of Commons was appointed
to enquire into the raid, but the taldng of evidence was post-
poned till the next session. Meanwhile, President ICruger
hardened his heart, used the money obtained by the Reform
Leaders’ fines to increase his armaments, and continued and
accentuated the system by which the Uitlanders contributed
more than three-quarters of the Transvaal revenue without
having any voice in its expenditure.

There was from the first much personal sympathy in
Great Britain and in the Empire for Dr. Jameson and the
raiders. This movement of public feeling was strengthened
by a telegram which the German Emperor, after consulting
his Ministers, sent immediately after the raid, congratulating
Mr. Kruger in terms virtually recognising his independence,
and which he followed up by orders to land marines from a
German cruiser in Delagoa Bay to proceed to Pretoria — a
measure frustrated by Portuguese refusal to acquiesce. As
control over the foreign relations of the Transvaal was
secured to Britain by the Convention of London, and as both
Government and people were determined to maintain it, the
Emperor’s action caused an outburst of angry indignation.
In view of the anxious situation alike in South Africa, in
Anglo-German relations, and in Anglo-American relations
over Venezuela, a Flying Squadron was mobilised, and pre-
parations were made for sending more troops to South
Africa. But, before long, the tension was relaxed. It was
found unnecessary to despatch the troops; the German
Emperor protested that he had been misunderstood — a
protest formally accepted by the Government, but altogether

INTRODUCTORY NOTE

180(51

.‘1

disLi’uytcd by British opinion ; and the Anglo-American
dispute became a matter of friendly negotiation, -which was
concluded within the year by a reference, under certain con-
ditions, of the Venezuelan boundary question to arbitration.

Lord Salisbury realised in March that an opportunity had
come to begin that movement for regaining the Soudan for
civilisation, to which so many of his countrymen were looking
forward, and which the regenerating work in Egypt of Lord
Cromer, the British Agent-General, and of Sir Herbert
Kitchener, the Sirdar of the Egyptian Army, had by now
rendered possible. An Italian expeditionary force in Abyssinia
had been defeated by the Negus at Adowa on 1st March,
and their hold on Kassala was threatened by the dervishes,
who were in a ferment throughout the northern Soudan.
Partly as a diversion to help the Italians, the Sirdar was
ordered to advance up the Nile fi'om Wady Haifa, but not to
go farther than Dongola. Though violent attacks were made
on this policy of advance in Parliament by the Liberals
under Sir William Harcourt and Mr. Morley, Ministers
were sustained by large majorities, 268 to 126, and 288 to
145. The expedition, mainly formed of Egyptian troops,
was completely successful. On the morning of 7th June,
at Firkct, the dervishes were surprised in camp and routed
with heavy loss ; and in the autumn, after a sharp conflict
at Hafir, Dongola was occupied on 28rd September. In West
Africa the aims of the Ashanti Expedition were accomplished
without any fighting ; King Prempeh was deposed and
deported. In Canada a General Election placed the Liberals
in power, with Mr. Wilfrid Laurier as Premier. He was a
French Canadian, but a strong Imperialist, a main branch
of whose policy was the adoption of preferential tariff
arrangements with Great Britain and sister colonies. In
Australia, in spite of the death of Sir Henry Parkes, the
idea of Federation made distinct progress, and all the
Colonies, except Queensland, resolved to meet in a Federal
conference in 1897.

The Russian Emperor and Empress were crowned with
imposing ceremony at Moscow on 26th May ; but the festiv-
ities were marred by a terrible disaster, on the 81st, in which,
owing to defective police arrangements for regulating the
enormous crowds, 3,000 people were suffocated or trampled
to death in a crush. In the autumn the Imperial pair made
a tour in Europe, accompanied by the Foreign Minister,
Prince Lobanoff, who died suddenly on 30th August. They

4 INTRODUCTORY NOTU fciiAi*. xii

visited the Emperor Eraucis Joseph in Vienna at the end of
August ; spent a fortnight, from 22nd September to .‘h-d
Oclober, with Queen Victoria at Balmoral, where the Emperor
saw Lord Salisbury ; and then paid a demonstrative visit of
five days, 6th to 9th October, to France, being received with
great enthusiasm and ceremony in Paris.

The peace of the world was threatened by the failure of
Spain to subdue an insurrection in Cuba. Marshal Campos
was superseded by General Weyler without any greater success.
The attitude of the United States, where there was much sym-
pathy for the Cuban rebels, was menacing ; and the Senate
passed a resolution, disregarded by the Executive, aclcnow-
ledging the independence of Cuba. Attention in America
was largely occupied by the Presidential Election, in which
Mr. McKinley, Republican, defeated Mr. Bryan, a Democrat
in favour of the free coinage of silver. The state of Turkey
as well as Cuba remained a menace to the world. Though
Lord Salisbury had restored the concert of Eiu’ope, he could
not get it to work efficiently. An attempt was made to
end the unrest in Crete by appointing a Christian Governor.
The massacres of Armenians in different parts of the
Turkish Empire continued, and culminated in a peculiarly
atrocious holocaust in Con-stantiuople in August. The
Powers protested, without result ; and Lord Salisbury
could not induce them to do more than protest. Indigna-
tion rose to a high pitch in England, and a large part of the
Liberal Party, stimulated by Mr. Gladstone, advocated inde-
pendent action to depose the Sultan. Lord Rosebery com-
bated this movement, but without much success in his
own party ; and accordingly, by a letter to the Whip on 6th
October, he resigned his leadership.

The first session of the new Ministry was not a wholly
successful one, as its principal measure, a comprehensive
"Education Bill, though welcomed on its second reading by
the unprecedented majority of 267, proved so unwieldy and
so unacceptable to the Nonconformists and to many Church-
men that it had to be withdrawn in the middle of June, after
only two lines of the first clause had been passed in Committee.
Mr. Balfour, however, succeeded in carrying a sessional order
by which supply was limited to twenty days — an arrange-
ment still in force. The House of Commons sanctioned
further large increases in Naval Expenditure. Important
bills were also passed to relieve agricultural land of half its
rates, and to facilitate land purchase in Ireland.

CHAPTER XII
1896

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 1st Jan. 1896. — ^Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to submit copies of the telegrams which have
passed with regard to affairs in the Transvaal.

Doctor Jameson’s invasion^ of a country with
which your Majesty is at peace appears to have had
no justification. His action has been disavowed by
Mr. Rhodes and by the Chartered Company. Mr.
Chamberlain hopes that the action taken by Sir
Hercules Robinson ^ and himself will prevent bloodshed
and avert further mischief.

[TMegramme.] Queen Victoria to the Sultan of Turkey.

2 Jan. 1896. — Je remercie sinc<^rement votre
Majesty Imp^riale des bons vceux qu’elle m’adresse
pour le nouvel an. Dieu veuilie que les nuages qui
I’obscurcissent se dissipent et que votre Majeste ait
la satisfaction de voir cesser les souffrances de vos
peuples ! Victoria R. I.

[Telegram.'] Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Parliament Street, 2nd Jan. 1896, — ^Mr. Cham-
berlain . . . regrets to have to inform your Majesty
that Dr, Jameson refused to obey the commands of
Sir H. Robinson and to retire. An engagement there-

1 See Introductory Note to this chapter.

2 The High Commissioner for South Africa and Governor of Cape
Colony,

0

THE JAMESON HMD

1 CTTAP. XXt

upoiv took place -with the troops of the ii'ansvaal, and
Dr. Jameson had to surrender after losing' men killed
and wounded. Sir H. Robinson is now on his way l,o
Pretoria with instructions to secure best terms for
the prisoners and to assist in a settlement.

Lord Salisbury’s Third Ministry

(Formed in June 1895 )

Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary
First Lord of the Treasury

Lord Chancellor

Lord President of the Council

Lord Privy Seal
Home Secretary

Colonial Secretary
War Secretary
Indian Secretary .

Chancellor of the Emhcqver

First Lord of the Admiralty

Lord Lieutenant of Ireland
Lord Chancellor of Ireland
President of the Board of Trade

President of the Local Government
Board

President of the Board of Agriculture

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

Secretary far Scotland
First Commissioner of Works .

Marquis op Saijsbuuy.

Arthur Jamhs (afterwards Earl
of) Bam'our,

Lord (afterwards Earl of) Hals-

BURY.

Duke of Devonshire (formerly
Marquis of Hartington).

Viscount Cross.

Sir Matthew White (after-
wards Viscount) R1DI.HY.

Joseph Chamherlain.

Marquis of Lansdowne,

Lord George ITamii.ton.

Sir Miciiaei, TIickh Ueach
(afterwards Earl St. Aid-
wyn),

trF.ORGE .1. (afterwards Viseoiint)
GOSCJIEN.

EIari, Cadogan.

Lord Ashiioiirne.

CiiAREES T. (afterwards I.ord)
Ritoiiie.

Henry (afterwards Viscount)
Chaplin.

Walter H. (afterwards Vis-
count) Long.

Lord James of Hereford
(formerly Sir Henry James).

Lord Balfour of Burleigh.

Aretas Aeers-Douglas (after-
wards Viscount Chilston).

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 2nd Jan. 1896. — Beatrice read me
telegrams after tea, as my sight is so bad, and I have
not yet succeeded in getting spectacles to suit. No
fresh news from the Transvaal. But this affair is
very unfortunate.

There are every day satisfactory accounts in the
papers from the Gold Coast. The native Chiefs,

1

1806 ] GERMAN EMPEROR AND MR. KRUGER

especially one is mentioned, were greatly excited and
surprised when Sir F. Scott introduced Liko/ “ who
had married the Queen’s daughter,” to them. The
papers also say that Liko has been made Military
Secretary to the General.

3rd Jan . — ^More telegrams kept coming in, and
one from President Kruger to Mr. Chamberlain
apparently referring to those in the Raid who had
been taken prisoners, saying they were to be treated
with kindness.

The papers are full of very strong articles against
William, who sent a most unwarranted telegram to
President Kruger, congratulating him, which is out-
rageous, and very unfriendly towards us. The follow-
ing is the telegram : “ I sincerely congratulate you that
you and your people have succeeded, by your own
energetic action and without appealing for help to
friendly Powers, in restoring order against the armed
bands that broke into your country as disturbers of
the peace, and in safeguarding the independence of
the country from attacks from without.” After tea
Beatrice dictated to me from a rough draft of mine
a letter to William,^ in answer to one I received from
him a few days ago.

Sir Francis Knollys^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.‘^

Sandbingiiam, Uh January 1896.

My dear Bigge, — The Prince of Wales desires me
to write to you and say that he feels sure the Queen
looks upon the German Emperor’s message to Presi-
dent Kruger as a most gratuitous act of unfriendliness.
H.R.H. also thinks that, considering the Emperor’s
relationship with her Majesty, the professions which
he has always made as to his love for this country,

^ Prince Henry of Battenberg, Princess Beatrice’s husband, who had
joined the Ashanti Expeditionary Force, commanded by Sir F. Scott.

^ See next page.

^ Private Secretary to the Prince of Wales and to King Edward
throughout his reign ; created Viscount KnoUys.

Pr^ate Secretary to the Queen 1896-1901, and to King George
1910-1931 ; cre'^ted TjOl’d Sl^mfnrdh m.

8 THE QtJEEN AND TEK EMVKEOH L‘'"Ai’.

and the appointments which he holds both in the
English Army and Navy, he has shown in addition
the worst possible good taste and good feeling in
congratulating the Boers on their victory over a body
of men (accomplished it is feared with a considerable
loss of life to the vanquished) composed exclusively
of the Queen’s subjects. But independently of all
this, the Prince of Wales would like to know what
business the Emperor had to send any message at all.
The South African Republic is not an independent
State in the proper sense of the word, and it is under
the Queen’s suzerainty. What the Emperor has done
therefore is doubly unnecessary and unfriendly.
H.R.H. only hopes he will not come to Cowes this
year. Yours sincerely, Francis Knollys.

[Telegram.] The Colonial Office to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Colonial Office, Uh Jan. 1896. — . . . All tele-
grams were posted to you this evening at seven ;
Jameson not wounded, but in prison, with White and
Willoughby.^ It is believed that things are becoming
quiet and no further disturbance likcily. We think
Transvaal Government will deal leniently with
prisoners, . . .

Queen Victoria to the German Emperor.

[ Copy ^ Osborne, January 1800.

My dear William, — . . . As your Grandmother
to whom you have always shown so much affection
and of whose example you have always spoken with
so much respect, I feel I cannot refrain from expressing
my deep regret at the telegram you sent President
Kruger. It is considered very unfriendly towards
this country, which I feel sure it is not intended to be,
and has, I grieve to say, made a very painful impression
here. The action of Dr. Jameson was of course very
wrong and totally unwarranted ; but considering the
very peculiar position in which the Transvaal stands
towards Great Britain, I think it would have been far

' Military officers accompanyincr Dr. Jameson.

1806J QUEEN AND TRANSVAAL TELEGRAMS 9

belter to have said nothing. Our great wish has always
been to keep on the best of terms with Germany,
trying to act together, but I fear your Agents in the
Colonies do the very reverse, which deeply grieves us.
Let me hope that you will try and check this. . . .

I hope you will take my remarks in good part, as
they are entirely dictated by my desire for your good,
Victoria R. I.^

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.']

5th Jan. 1896. — While thanking you for your letter
and telegrams sent by messenger on 1st, I cannot
help expressing surprise that the more important
details of news from the Transvaal have not been at
once forwarded to me by telegraph. Telegrams
which arrived here by post this morning were pub-
lished in last night’s papers.

I am deeply grieved at this sad disaster, and am
naturally most anxious for the latest news.

I sincerely sympathise with you in this most
serious and complicated question which has arisen in
your Department of my Government,

[Telegrams.] Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 5th Jan. 1896. — Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
regrets very much that he has misunderstood your
Majesty’s wishes in regard to telegrams from South
Africa. In future all messages of any importance
shall be repeated to your Majesty as soon as they can
be put into cypher. At the present time there is no
indication of any further disturbance of the peace
either at Johannesburg or elsewhere, and President
Kruger appears to be acting with great moderation.

Qih Jan . — Following telegram received from Sir H.
Robinson, 6th January :

“ 5 January No. 4. C. J. Rhodes telegraphs to me
that he finds the present position of affairs so strained

^ This letter has already been published in Sir Sidney Lee’s King
Edward VII, vol. i, eh. 38.

10 QUEEN AND 1881 CONVENTION [cuAi’. xu

that he thinks I should accept his resignation. His
colleagues in the Ministry, I understand, are all of
the same opinion. Acting on suggestion from Rhodes,
I have invited Sir Gordon Sprigg to undertake task
of formation of new Ministry.”

[Same day ,] — Mr. Chamberlain . . . begs to thank
your Majesty for your gracious message.

The situation in South Africa is still very critical,
and Mr. Chamberlain is using every possible means to
prevent any further raid on the territory of the
Transvaal Republic. Mr. Rhodes denies that any is
intended, and Sir Hercules Robinson does not antici-
pate one, but Mr. Chamberlain has heard rumours
from private sources which make him extremely
anxious. In addition to this, he is trying to dissuade
President Kruger from taking any extreme measures
which might lead to more bloodshed, and further em-
bitter race animosities in South Africa.

As important telegrams may come in at any hour
of the night or day, Mr. Chamberlain feels sure that
your Majesty would not wish him to leave his post
yet, but as soon as the great pressure is removed he
will wait upon your Majesty.

Extract from the QueerCs Journal,

OsBOBNE, 7th Jan. 1895. — So much to do, and
my troublesome eyes make everything much more
difficult. Had a letter from Mr. Chamberlain, who
is acting firmly and prudently.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.]

7th Jan. 1896. — ^Prom your cypher of last night
situation in Transvaal seems precarious. I assume
Jameson’s safety will be insisted upon.

You should not entertain any suggestion for alter-
ing terms of 1884 Convention which would adversely
affect our position with S[outh] A[frican] Republic.

I cannot say how shocked I am at the terrible loss
of life, and I am struck by the excess of killed over
wounded, which is the reverse of the usual proportion.

189(5] QUEEN AND PRESIDENT KRUGER 11

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Olfice, 7th Jan. 1896, — . . . From the
message just received (6.30 p.m.) from Sir Hercules
Robinson, and which is being cyphered to your
Majesty, Mr. Chamberlain is led to believe that the
prisoners taken by the Transvaal forces will be handed
over to be dealt with by your Majesty’s Government.

In this case it is probable that there will be no
further disturbance in South Africa, and under these
circumstances Mr. Chamberlain hopes that it will not
be necessary to make preparations for sending a large
force to the Cape, as contemplated in his telegram to
Sir Hercules Robinson this morning. The knowledge
that this step was under consideration may have
influenced President Kruger’s action, and the situa-
tion is now certainly more favourable.

Mr. Chamberlain has informed President Kruger
that your Majesty’s Government will uphold all the
articles of the Convention of 1884.

[Telegrams.]

Whitehall, Sth Jan. 1896. — ^Mr. Chamberlain has
great pleasure in informing your Majesty that the pri-
soners are to be handed over to Sir Hercules Robinson,
and that the crisis in South Africa is now over. . . .

[Same day.] — May I express to President Kruger
your Majesty’s satisfaction that he has handed
prisoners over ? ^

[Same day.] — ^Mr. Chamberlain . . . has instructed
Sir Hercules Robinson to convey to President Kruger
the expression of your Majesty’s satisfaction in terms
which Mr. Chamberlain thinks may indicate the
position of your Majesty in regard to the Transvaal
Republic,

1 The Queen approved l;his suggestion.

2 The Queen’s message to Mr. Kruger, as transmitted by Mr.

Chamberlain, concluded : “ This act [the handing over of the

prisoners] will redound to the credit of your Honour, and wiU conduce
to the peace of South Africa, and to that harmonious co-operation of
the British and Dutch races which is necessary for its future develop-
ment and prosperity.”

12

BUTTISII MTIITABY PBBCAUTIONS U'iiai'. xn

Mr. Chamberlain has expressed cordial ap{)recia-
tioii of Sir Hercules Robinson’s action, pending a
fuller or more formal recognition of the services
rendered by him which Mr. Chamberlain proposes to
make at the close of the negotiations.

Mr. Chamberlain has been aware for some time of
rumours that there would be an insurrection in the
Transvaal, and it was last reported that the rising
would take place at Christmas. But it appears that
the Uitlanders were divided in opinion among them-
selves, and, instead of making a Revolution, they only
passed a Resolution, which embodied their grievances.
Mr. Chamberlain supposed that this would result in a
peaceable settlement, whieh would no doubt have
been arrived at but for Dr. Jameson’s impulsive
action. Although this will delay the change, it seems
probable that the large immigration of Englishmen
into the Transvaal will continue, and in tlris case
British influence must in the long run predominate.

Queen, Victoria to the Marquia of SaUshury,
[Cypher Telegram.]

8th Jan. 1806. — While thoroughly appreciating
and approving Mr. Chamberlain’s prompt and firm
action, I think that I should be consulted in such very
important questions as sending troops to the Cape or
mobilising a Flying Squadron, even though time may
press.

Have been daily expecting to hear from you and
to learn your views on the general situation.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

8th Jan. 1896. — I was as much surprised as your
Majesty to see in The Times the account of the inten-
tion to send a flying squadron and troops to the Cape.
I first heard the project yesterday, but I did not
understand it to be mature. Your Majesty certainly
ought to have been consulted before the newspapers
were allowed to know what was proposed. But their

1896] NEWSPAPER EXCESSES 18

emissaries swarm all over the public offices, and it is
very difficult to keep things from them.

It is proposed to send down three ships, now at
Zanzibar, to Delagoa Bay in order to give moral
support and, if necessary, material support to the
Portuguese, who have behaved very well in refusing
to allow a passage for German sailors to the Transvaal.

News to-day that Jameson and the prisoners are
to be given up to Sir H. Robinson relieves us of our
most serious apprehension. Matters appear to be
more smooth in Africa. They are still very bad in
Germany.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, Sth Jan. 1896. — Thanks. Feel for your
work and anxiety. Thougli I share the great indigna-
tion of the people against Germany, do, 1 entreat you,
do all you can to pour oil [? water] on the flames, and,
above all, urge the police to watch and prevent ill-usage
of innocent and good German residents. Could you not
direct Sir F. Lascelles ^ to speak to the Emperor and to
urge some sort of conciliatory language being used ?
Could you not hint to our respectable papers not to
write violent articles to excite the people ? These
newspaper wars often tend to provoke war, which
would be too awful.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

9th Jan. 1896. — . . . I will do my best to attend
to your Majesty’s commands whenever I have an
opportunity. I had strongly discouraged any lan-
guage or action against the German residents in your
Majesty’s Dominions, or against Germany or the
German Emperor.

The more irresponsible newspapers in both coun-
tries do infinite harm. German Ambassador’s lan-
guage throughout has been quite conciliatory. He

1 Rriti h dor m

14 LOUD WOLSELKY ON THE LAID xu

professes the utmost desire to respect your Majesty’s
rights in regard to the Transvaal, though he will not
admit that the Treaties now in forec confer the title
of Suzerain.

The political sky looks a little calmer in all direc-
tions. The Sultan is slightly more reasonable, and
there are signs that the &ited States are wishing to
recede from their extreme position,^

Viscount Wolseley^ to Queen Victoria.

Oth January 189G.

Madam, — I venture to lay before your Majesty
with my humble duty the following ideas upon the
recent attack upon the Transvaal by a force under
Dr. Jameson.

I am convinced the attack had long been contem-
plated by a body of men who took their ins])iration
from Mr. C. Rhodes, the late Prime Minister of the
Cape Colony. The attempt nearly succeeded ; indeed,
had the English people in Johannesburg sallied out to
meet Dr. Jameson’s party, the Boers would have been
beaten. Dr. Jameson’s party took only four days’
provisions with it, and had to get over one hundred
and sixty miles of country. I am consequently aston-
ished that they fought so well. They had a number
of excellent officers with them, most of whom are
known to me. I hope it may be able to save them,
for they would be a loss to your Majesty’s army.
Sooner or later the Transvaal must be an English
province, but it will be, I fear, a Republic. Had Dr.
Jameson succeeded it would, I believe, have come back
to your Majesty’s Empire. . . .

The key of the position is Delagoa Bay, where the
Germans threatened to land some marines to help the
Boers. A railway runs from that place — Lorenzo
Marques is the name of the town there — ^to Pretoria,
so that now the Transvaal Boers, by an arrangement
with Portugal, can obtain arms and whatever they

^ In regard, of course, to the Venezuela question. See Introductory
Note. ® W ® °t till'’ t.iiTie Oomm"nfi<=‘v-in-PVii*»f

18961 THE MILITARY POSITION 15

require without bringing it through British territory.
Formerly, all they required from abroad went through
Natal, and had to pay our Colonial duties. If we had
Lorenzo Marques, we should be masters of the posi-
tion ; but, as it is, the only good harbour on the east
coast of Africa is in the hands of a weak Power, unable
to protect its outlying ports from being made use of
by any strong nation that would not scruple to use
force in pursuit of its aims. ... I sincerely hope we
may not now be induced to interfere with the Chart-
ered Company. Personally, I have not the remotest
interest in that Company, laut I feel that it can do
great things for England, and do them far better than
any Home Government could. Our Indian Empire
was built up by a company, and I believe a company
in South Africa could, in a somewhat similar fashion,
build up for us a strong position there.

I deplore beyond measure everything that has
taken place in the Transvaal during the last fortnight ;
but I have great confidence in Mr. Chamberlain’s
patriotism and statesmanlike foresight to save your
Majesty’s Empire from harm in South Africa and to
maintain British influence and prestige there. In my
opinion, we should always keep in South Africa more
troops than wc have done in recent years. It is a very
central place from which garrisons could, in the event
of war, be at once despatched to St. Helena and the
Mauritius. . . . Cape Town itself is, I think, the most
important point in a naval point of view of all your
Majesty’s possessions in the Eastern hemisphere.

Everything goes well with the Ashanti force. . . .
I find that the newspapers receive earlier and better
news than we do. But anything special that may
come to the War Office will be at once telegraphed to
your Majesty. I had a good account of the voyage to
the Gold Coast, and of how much Prince Henry had
done to make all around him happy. He was a
universal favourite, and had entered keenly into all
the shipboard amusements of his comrades. He had
at first sprained his ankle slightly, but had recovered

16 THE FLYTNG SQUADEON fcrrAV. xit

from the effects before he landed. According to ray
calculations, the whole of Sir F. Scott’s force should
to-day, the lOLh January, have concentrated iit or near
Bekwai. That is near Amoaful, where I had my
biggest fight in 1874. On Sunday or Monday at
latest they ought to be in Coomassie. ... I have the
honour to be, Madam, your Majesty’s most obedient
servant and soldier, Wolseley.

[Cypher Telegram.^ Queen Victoria to Mr. Goschen.

10th Jan. 1896. — I should be glad to know some
particulars about mobilisation of Flying Squadron, as
beyond information in newspapers, I have no know-
ledge as to what prompted it or for what particular
purpose it is intended.

Mr. Goschen to Queen Victoria.

Admtealty, 10^/i Jan. 1896. — Mr. Goschen pre-
sents his humble duty to your Majesty and begs to
report as follows :

When the message of President Cleveland ' liad
arrived, and the results which might How therefrom
had to be considered, the position of our Naval force
on the American station had to be thoroughly
examined in relation to the number of ships of the
United States.

As the United States have a very large proportion
of their whole strength near their own shores, whereas
it is only comparatively a weak squadron which Great
Britain keeps there in normal times, Mr. Goschen
thought it his duty to take timely precautions, while at
the same time taking no steps which would cause irri-
tation. It occurred to him that the best method
would be to revive the name of the Flying Squadron,
which used at one time to exist, and to have a force
which would be ready in any emergency and for any
purpose.

While^ contemplating this step the Transvaal
episode occurred, with all its attendant dangers : the
menacing tone of the German Emperor’s message, the

1 The message about Venezuela, See vol. ii, j;). 462.

1896] THE EMPEROR’S EXPLANATION 17

suggestion of aid to the 'rransvaal on the part of other
Powers, and a general uncertainty as to what incidents
this country might have to confront. Such a situa-
tion rendered the formation of the Flying Squadron
specially desirable, and Lord Salisbury and Mr,
Chamberlain, with whom Mr. Goschen was in com-
munication, cordially approved the plan. The step
seemed also likely to show the country the rapidity
with which, in critical times, another squadron could
be got together.

The commissioning of the torpedo boats was more
of an administrative measure. These boats (“ de-
stroyers ” is their name rather than “ torpedo ”
boats) are of a new type, with a special form of boiler,
and have to be commanded by young officers. It is
held, therefore, to be extremely important to exercise
both officers, bluejackets, and more especially stokers,
in these extremely fast and peculiar vessels ; and
accordingly each ship in the Channel Squadron and the
Flying Squadron have had one “ torpedo destroyer ’’
attached to them. It is intended that their crews
shall be frequently changed.

This measure has not been intended to be of the
nature of “ mobilisation,” though it has been so
regarded. The press fasten at the present moment
on every step taken, with a tendency to exaggerate
and sensationalise it.

Mr. Goschen trusts that these explanations are
what your Majesty desired 'to receive.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 10th Jan. 1896. — Saw Mr. Chamberlain,
who was very interesting in all he told me about the
Transvaal, and is very firm and sensible. He is much
shocked at William’s telegram. (I had a letter ^
from him to-day, in answer to mine, declaring he never
intended to offend England, but the explanations are

1 This letter, in which the German Emperor explained that he
looked upon the Jameson raiders as rebels against his Grandmother, and
only acted in the interests of peace and of German investments in the
Transvaal, was printed in Lee’s Kina Edward VII, vol. i, p. 720.

18 THE QUESTION OE SUZEUAIN'I'Y fctrAC. xn

lame and ilU)gicaL) Mr. Chamberlain is strong’ about
all that was settled in the Treaty of 1884 being main-
tained, by which it is stipulatcil that the representa-
tives of the Transvaal cannot make any treaties, etc.,
with foreign countries. This will be formally main-
tained, whether the so-called “ Suzeraincte ” was
abrogated in ’84 or not. It makes no difference as
to what is necessary to prevent the complete inde-
pendence of the Transvaal.

Just as I was dressing for dinner, Beatrice came in
to tell me she had received a telegram direct from Sir
F. Scott saying : “ Prince Henry is suffering from
fever, slight, but sufficient to prevent going on to the
front.”

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

10th Jan. 1896. — With regard to your draft des-
patch to Sir F. Lasccllcs reporting German Ambas-
sador’s remarks as to question of my suzerainty of
South African Republic, hope you will consult Law
Officers, and that, if they consider Convention of 1884
did not invalidate preamble of 1881, you will stoutly
maintain the position otr that particular point estab-
lished by latter instrument.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

10th Jan. 1896. — . . . The question was referred
to the Law Officers by the late Government. The
opinion given by them was not very favourable. The
embarrassment arises, not from the terms of the Con-
vention, but from a letter written at the same time by
Lord Derby ^ to President Kruger, which almost sur-
renders the position. The opinion wiU be sent to you.

On Wednesday Lord Salisbury had another inter-
view with Count Hatzfeldt,^ at which he pointed out
that a veto on all engagements with foreign Powers
must be considered in conjunction with the refusal

1 The 15th Eail, Colonial Secretaiy in 1884.

" German Amba lador in T.onrlnn.

19

189C] PRINCE HENRY OF HATTENBERG ILL

which is recorded to admit that the Republic was
independent. Count Hatzfeldt maintained the
abrogation of the suzerainty with more than his
usual emphasis. Lord Salisbury absolutely refused
to admit this view. . . .

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, llth Jan. 1896. — Can think of nothing
but dear Liko. It is a terrible anxiety for poor
Beatrice. Telegraphed and heard his faithful servant
Butcher was with him, having been allowed to
accompany him. Heard that dear Liko had been
sent to hospital ship with a medical officer. We are
dreadfully distressed and worried, and feel how keen
the disappointment will be for him. Christie, ^ Sir F.
Scott said, was well. Leila E[rroll], Harriet P[hipps],
Lord Dartmouth, Lord Bridport, Rosa Evans, Mr.
Chamberlain, and Sir A. Bigge dined.

Mr. Chamberlain got a cypher, which Sir A. Bigge
deciphered after dinner. It was from Sir H. Robinson,
saying there was a hitch. Kruger would not release
the prisoners, unJess we took the rank and file back to
England. Very preposterous, but something must be
done about it.

Queen Victoria to the Prince of Wales.

[Draft.j OsBDiiNii, llih January 1890.

Dearest Bertie, — I send you here the answer I
received yesterday to my letter from William, which
please reburn when done with. I have since heard
that the Government (William’s) had nothing to do
with .this outrageous [telegram] ^ which has created
such a sensation, which, however, fortunately is cooling

I Prince Christian Victor of Schleswig-Holstein, Prince Christian’s
elder son, who was also serving in the Ashanti Expedition.

^ Queen Victoria had been misled on this point. The Council of
Ministers had met specially, under the Emperor’s Chairmanship, to
discuss the situation, and the telegram was sent with the concurrence of
the Chancellor, Prince Hohenlohe, and the Foreign Minister, Baron yon
Matschall. Marschall told Sir Valentine Chirol it was a Staalsaktion.
See Fifty Years in a Changing World, by Sir V. Chirol, pp. 279-281 ;
and Lee’s King Edward VII, vol. i, ch. 38.

TTT 3

20 LOKB SAUSl^TJRY ON TUH KMPKROU ItntAP.xri

down. It would not do to have given hini “ a good
snub,” Those sharp, cutting answers and remarks
only irritate and do harm, and in Sovereigns and
Princes should be most carefully guarded against.
William’s faults come from iinpctuousness (as well as
conceit) ; and calmness and firmness are the most
powerful weapons in such cases. Lord Salisbury’s
great strength is his great calmness and energy, both
of which Mr. Chamberlain possesses.

You will, I know, be grieved to hear that poor
dear Liko has got fever, though slightly, as we heard
from Sir F. Scott, and has ventured back to the ship
this morning. It is a terrible disappointment for
him, but we heard this morning that the fever is
declining, so perhaps he may yet go back. It is a
terrible trial for darling Beatrice, but she is so patient
and brave and good. I am quite proud of her. . . .
Ever your devoted Mama, V. R. I.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oeeice, TiihJan. 1.89C.“--Lord Salisbury
, . . respectfully expresses his deep gratitude for your
Majesty’s kind and considerate letter. The Icnowledge
that he has your Majesty’s confidence makes the
anxieties of the present troubled time easy to him. He
respectfully thanks your Majesty for showing him the
Emperor’s letter. The German Emperor has always
had the profoundest reverence for your Majesty ; and
much of its kindly and friendly tone is due to that
strong feeling. Something also is due to his having
written the despatch in a moment of excitement ; and
to his seeing now that he made a mistake. Lord
Salisbury would respectfully advise your Majesty fully
to accept all his explanations without enquiring too
narrowly into the truth of them ; and to write in a
tone of full belief in his friendly professions. It might
be opportune for your Majesty to express regret that
the newspapers in both countries should say so many
things calculated to diminish the friendship which the
two peoples would naturally entertain for each other.

1806] BETTER NEWS OF PRINCE HENRY 21

Count liatzfeldt’s language, especially yesterday,
supports the idea that the Emperor has really been
trying, during the last six months, to frighten England
into joining the Triple Alliance. It is impossible for
your Majesty to do so ; because the English people
would never consent to go to war for a cause in which
England was not manifestly interested ; and Lord
Salisbury, during the present Ministry and during his
previous Ministry, has always declined on this ground.
It is of no use promising what probably cannot be
done. But Count Hatzfeldt now wants a secret
engagement signed by Lord Salisbury, and three or
four of his colleagues ; and he enforced this view
yesterday in many warnings of the danger of isolation.
But the demand is quite inadmissible. Isolation is
a much less danger than the danger of being dragged
into wars which do not concern us. . . .

Extracts from the Queen'^s Journal,

Osborne, lUh Jan. 1896. — Beatrice read letters
and telegrams to me after tea. Soon afterwards
heard the following good news of Liko : “ Slept well,
has taken nourishment this morning, symptoms show
great improvement, is able to undertake journey.”
This has given such joy to dear Beatrice, who has
been in such cruel suspense. Another telegram came
saying Liko had reached Mansu.

15ih Jan . — Wrote a short letter to William,
accepting his explanation that he had meant no
offence to England by his telegram.

[Copy.l Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Osborne, 14sth Jan. 1896. — . . . Lord Salisbury
mentions the impossibility of coming to any secret
agreement with any one or two Powers. But he will
recollect an agreement which was signed between,
she thinks, [us and] Germany and Austria, or some
other Power, binding us to concert together or some-
thing to that effect, either in ’90 or ’91, or sooner,
which is a precedent.

22

Cxin<'AT BinTAIN ANB ATJJANC'KS |('1 (ai>. xu

Affairs now are vSO diffcrciiL from what they used
to be, that the Queen eamiot liel]) feeling L]\at our
isolation is dangerous. Docs Lord Salisbury not think
that wc angered the other Powers when we refused
last spring to join the other Powers about China
and Japan ?

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,

15th Jan. 1896. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully thanks your
Majesty for the copy of the German Emperor’s letter.
He has told Monsieur de CourceD that your Majesty
would gladly receive President Faure ; but that you
could not be at Nice before the 1 thh of March, starting
from here on the 12th.

The secret alliance of which Count Hatzfeldt spoke
was an alliance binding England to go to war under
certain conditions. It is almost impossible for an
English Government to enter into sucli an alliance as
this, because when the crisis came, and the decision of
peace or war had to be taken, the Parliament and
people would not be guided in any degree by the fact
that the Government had some years beJ'ore signed a
secret agreement to go to war, but entirely by the
cause for which it was proposed to go to war, and their
interests and feelings in respect to it. Their fury
would be extreme when they discovered that their
Ministry had tried to pledge them secretly beforehand.
The secret agreements which were signed with Italy
and Austria some years ago, contained no sort of
promise to go to war.^ They only contained declara-
tions of policy, in accordance with the well-known
policy of England, and carefully avoided aU refer-
ence to active measures. . . .

Hatfield. [Undated.] — ^Lord Salisbui’y . . . re-
spectfully returns the Empress Frederick’s letter,
which he has read with painful interest. Words are
quite inadequate to describe these horrors.® But

' French Ambassador in London.

“ See vol. i, pp. 244, 268-272, 276, 202.

“ Thn ArmPTiion “trocitiP"

23

1896| SIR H. ROBINSON AND MR. KRUGER

England’s strength lies in her ships, and ships can
only operate on the seashore or the sea. England
alone can do nothing to remedy an inland tyranny ;
and the other Powers will not move.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.]

15th Jan. 1896. — Am much pleased with the firm
and distinct tone of your message of 13th to Sir H.
Robinson. It is excellent.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 15th Jan. 1896. — Mr. Chamber-
lain . . . begs to thank your Majesty for your gracious
message.

Sir Hercules Robinson has now concluded his visit
to Pretoria and retunicd to the Cape. He does not
appear to have obtained any definite promise of
reforms from President Kruger, which is a matter
for regret.

Mr. Chamberlain feels however that, in the pi’e-
sent rather excited state of feeling among the Boers,
the time would not be well chosen for further pressure ;
but he hopes at a later date to resume negotiations
with this object. Meanwhile, it appears probable that
no incidents of much interest are likely to occur for
some time in South Africa, in which case Mr. Chamber-
lain does not propose to trouble your Majesty with
further telegrams, unless otherwise instructed by your
Majesty. . . .

Extract from the Queen’s Journal,

Osborne, 16i/i Jan. 1896. — Received good news
about dear Liko whilst we were at breakfast. He has
arrived safely at Cape Coast Castle, and gone to the
hospital at Connor’s Hill. The improvement is main-
tained. Beatrice received a telegram from Liko him-
self saying: “Plave been very ill, but thanks to the
unceasing care of Dr. Hilliard and Butcher, I have
safely arrived here.”

24, KING lEOPOIJ) AND LOUD SALTSUlIllY [t ifAi-. xu

The Marquis of Salisbury to Quean Victoria.

IQth Jan, 1896. — Lord Salisbury with his hurable
duty respectfully thanks your Majesty for a copy of
the letter to the German Emperor, It is cnfcii’ely
suited in Lord Salisbury’s judgment to the occasi< ,
and he hopes will produce a valuable elTect.

Lord Salisbury missed Mr. Austin’s pocra.^ But
he has heard it strongly condemned by many persons
both from a political and a literary point of view. It
is a pity that this effusion was his first performance.
Unluckily, it is to the taste of the galleries in the lower
class of theatres, and they sing it with vehemence.

Lord and Lady Salisbury beg to offer their respect-
ful congratulations on Prince Henry’s improvement.
The suspense during the interruption of the cable must
indeed have been teniblc. Your Majesty’s most
satisfactory telegram has just arrived. Lord Salis-
bury respectfully tlianks your Majesty for it.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge,

Itlh .Tanvnri] tSfid.

Dear Sir Arthur, — ^His Majesty the King of the
Belgians has honoured me with another visit.® His
confidences are so extraordinary that I hesitate to put
them into a despatch ; and therefore I will ask you
to let the Queen know the matters which in ordinary
ease would reach her through a despatch. He
reverted to the idea of a lease from the Khedive
(under our influence) to himself of that part of the
Nile which is now in the hands of the Mahdists. He
dwelt with great fervour on their excellent military
qualities and on the profit we could draw from them
if we had them in our service. This result was to be
brought about by our lessee (himself), and he seemed
to recognise no difficulty in the task he was under-
taking. When he had subdued them, and made them
pliant instruments of England’s will, they would be at

1 Mr. Alfred Austin’s poem on the Raid. Lord Salisbury had
recently recommended his appointment as Poet Laureate. See vol.
ii, p. 582. * See vol. ii, pp. 677-619.

1896] DEATH OP PRINCE HENRY 25

our disposal for any work we wanted done. We
should have to pay them some money ; but in that
condition we could do what we liked with them. We
could use them for the purpose of invading and occupy-
ing Armenia, and so putting a stop to the massacres
which were moving Europe so deeply ; and which
could not be arrested unless we had at our command
a powerful military force with which to occupy the
province. The idea of an English General at the head
of an army of dervishes, marching from Khartoum
to Lake Van, in order to prevent Mohammedans from
maltreating Christians, struck me as so quaint, that I
hastened to give the conversation another turn lest
I should be betrayed into some disrespectful com-
mentary. I preserved throughout the attitude of a
listener. He made several pauses in order to give me
an opportunity of breaking in and imploring him to
take the lease of the Mahdi’s country. But I made
no sign, and at last he retired (with a shower of
compliments, but) in despair. Yours very truly,
Salisbury.

Queen Victoria to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Osborne, 2l5f Jan. 1896. — Lord Salisbury’s
account of the King of the Belgians’ visit is quite
preposterous, and really seems as if he [King Leopold]
had taken leave of his senses. The Queen has written
to Lord Salisbury about it. . . .

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 22nd Jan. 1896. — A terrible blow has
fallen on us all, especially on my poor darling Beatrice.
Our dearly loved Liko has been taken from us ! Can
I write it ? He was so much better, and we were
anxiously awaiting the news of his arrival at Madeira.
What will become of my poor child ? All she said
in a trembling voice, apparently quite stunned, was,
“ The life is gone out of me.” She went back to her
room with Louischen,^ who, as well as dear Arthur,
has been most tender to her.

' Late Duchess of Connaught,

2G HER MAJESTY’S C5RIEE |nuv. xir

There is such grief in the Jionse. Dear Like
was so much beloved. Went over to Beatrice’s
room and sat a little wliile with her, she is so gentle,
so piteous in her misery. What have wc not all
lost in beloved, noble Liko, who has died in the
wish to serve his country! He was our help, the
bright sunshine of our home. My heart aches for
my darling child, who is so resigned and submissive.
God in His mercy help us ! It seems as though the
years ’61 and ’62 had returned, also the time when
we lost dear Leopold.

The beloved remains are being brought back by
the Blonde to Madeira, where we had hoped dear Liko
would recover and Beatrice go out to join him. This
makes it all the more pathetic. She will not hear of
it being said that Liko ought not to have gone, and in
a way she is right. She talks so hearbrendingly of her
vanished happiness. They were so absolutely devoted
to one another. God bless and help my poor child !
We Jiavc telegraphed foj- Fran/.jos and Louis. ^ Tele-
grams arc already coming in in great numbers, and
arc very land. Hear Beatrice came over to wish me
good-night. I dined alone with Artlmr and
Loiiischen. My grief is gi-cnt, and 1 am quite unnerved
by the shock of this dreadful news.

Mr. Chamberlain to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Colonial Officb, ‘iSrd Januarij 1806.

Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, — The arrangement with
President Kruger was that the rank and file of
Jameson’s force, who are domiciled in South Africa,
should be sent quietly to their homes without further
proceedings.

The remainder of the rank and file (278 persons)
and certain minor officers are to be brought to England
on a hired ship, the Harlech Castle, and will probably
be discharged in batches along the South Coast.

1 Prince Henry’s brothers, Prince Erancis Joseph and Prince Louis
of Battenberg.

1896] THE ROYAL VICTORIAN ORDER 27

Every possible precaution will be taken to prevent
public demonstrations in their favour.

Dr. Jameson and his officers (about 12 in number)
are to be brought home in the transport Victoria, which
also brings reliefs from India. Before their arrival
warrants will be applied for against them for breach
of the 11th clause of the Foreign Enlistment Act.
They will be brought before the Magistrate at Bow
Street, and prima facie e\ddence tendered. There will
no doubt be several remands, at the conclusion of
which it is probable they will be committed for trial
before one of H.M. Judges. The officers in H.M.
Army are answerable to the military as well as to the
civil authorities, but I imagine that nothing will be
done by the former, until the conclusion of the
judicial proceedings.

I should be very glad to have information as to the
health of her Majesty and of the Princess Beatrice,
under the strain of their recent terrible bereavement.
I am, yours very truly, J. Ciiambeelain.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Biggc.
[Copy.] OsBOENB, 27th January 1896.

Dear Sir Arthur,— Nei<o Order.^ I have
directed a Patent and Statutes to be drafted in
accordance with the Queen’s commands. I think it
is wise to keep it entirely in her own hands, if she is
disposed to bear the expense, which ought not to be
large.

People will value it more as the expression of her
own feelings ; and, if many decorations are given to
foreigners, it will be an advantage that the bestowal
of them should be admittedly unconnected with
current political controversies. . . . Yours very truly,
Salisbury.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, Uh Feb. 1896. — ^To describe this mourn-
ful day and all that took place at Portsmouth would

1 The Royal Victorian Order.

28 HOMECOMING OE PCE. HENRY'S BODY [‘ iiAV- xti

be impossible. I will try and put down what I saw.
Directly after luncheon, heard that the Alherla was in
sight, and I hurried off as quickly as I could, driving
down to Trinity Pier with Louise, Drino,^ Eua,® and
Jane Churchill. The two younger ehiklren followed
with the governess and nurse. The minute guns began
their sad solemn salute, the bells in the ships tolling,
and the Alberta, with the Royal Standard half-mast,
slowly passed through the Flying Squadron, gliding
noiselessly up to the pier. In another minute my
carriage drew up and I got out. Arthur was there
to meet me, and I was rolled across the gangway, and
then walked to where, on deck, between the funnels
and the saloon, covered with the Union Jack and
flowers, the beloved remains were resting, guarded by
the two poor brothers and nephew, and sweet Beatrice
entirely veiled in black standing at the head of the
coffin.

I can hardly write about it, the scionc was so
terribly affecting and pathetic, on a beautiful evening
all lit up by a glorious setting .sun, I was completely
overcome when I placed my wreath. I could not
realise it was he, dear bright Liko, who was always
going down to Cowes, .so devoted to sailing and
boating, and anything to do with the sea. That he
should die at sea, and be brought back this long voyage,
is too strange, too pathetic.®

IZth Feb . — At haK-past five dear Beatrice came
to my bedside to wish me good-bye. It was very
sad, and seemed so strange to have to part with
her, going alone to Cimiez with the children, but it
was the best thing she could do for herself, she said
very sadly, and she “ hoped to have more courage
to go on” when we met again. She thanked me
for all my kindness during this terrible time, and I was
much upset.

* Now Marquis of Caiisbrooke.

“ Queen of Spain, 1900-1931.

“ Prince Henry of Battenberg’s body was brought to Portsmouth
in H.M.S. Blenheim on 3rd February, and was buried at Whippingham
on 6th February.

1896J THE GERMAN EMPEROR AND THE QUEEN 29

Feh . — Wrote a letter to be published in the
papers, thanking my people for their kind sympathy
with Beatrice and me in our great sorrow.

\Telegram.^ The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Berlin Schloss, 23rd Feb. 1896. — Colonel
Swaine^ is coming to-day to take leave of me. He
has been here for over ten years, and filled his position
in such first-rate manner that his going away is a
matter of general regret. As he is a personal friend of
mine and was much liked by Papa and Grandpapa,
I hope you will approve of my giving him the Star
of 2nd class of Red Eagle. William I. R.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the German Emperor.

Windsor Castle, 23rd Feh. 1896. — In reply to
your gracious wish to confer a high decoration on
Colonel Swaine, though it is contrary to rule for such
to be accepted, I am glad to make an exeeption in
this case, considering his length of service as Military
Attach6 at Berlin, and also on account of the personal
friendship with which you have always honoured
him. V. R. I.

Colonel Swaine to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Queen’s Hotel, FARNBonouGir, Hants, Monday, 2Md March 1806.

My dear Bigge, — When I left Berlin the Emperor
had completely given up all idea of coming to Cowes
this year, and his Majesty told my wife that he would
be away in Norway this year during the period of the
Cowes week.

I had told several people some time ago that it
would be impossible for his Majesty coming this year,
in hopes that it would reach the Emperor’s ears ;
but to the general public I have placed the reason on
the deep mourning the Queen is in. It is no use
making things worse than they are. . . .

^ Afterwards General Sir Leopold Swaine.

!}() QlIKEN ON THAMES FLOODS iciiAV. xn

[Co|)2/-] Arthur Bigge to Mr, Ritchie,

WiNiisoii (.'ahtiJ':, Ard ]\larch 1800.

Deae, Mr. Ritchie, — 'The Queen cleHires me to
write to you on the subject of floods in the 'rinunes.
After the very heavy flood of November 1894, the
disastrous results of which her Majesty, who was here,
fully realised,^ the Queen understood that steps were
to be taken to mitigate the severity of any future
inundations. But her Majesty is surprised to learn
that practically nothing has been done in this direc-
tion, and that the Thames Conservancy Board, after
eleven months, have issued a Report in which they
more or less repudiate any responsibility so far as
the control of the floods is concerned.

It is true that fortunately the floods are not of
frequent recurrence. But at the same Lime the
Queen cannot help thinking that it is unwise; not to
profit by experience, and not to be forearmed against
any further invasion of Father Thames. For the
suffering among the popr in Windsor and Clewer was
ccrtaiifly very considerable, though every means was
taken by the Queen and others to relieve tin; distress ;
while the effect on l.he general healtli of tlie locality
and the fact that Eton College had to disperse arc
considerations not unworthy of notice.

The Queen feels sure that you will cause strict
enquiries to be made into this very important matter,
and ascertain what arc the views upon it of those
residing in this neighbourhood, and also in the higher
parts of the Thames valley ; and that you will satisfy
yourself that the Conservators adopt the most effective
measures to, at all events, minimise the evil effects
of these periodical floods. I am, dear Mr. Ritchie,
yours very truly, Arthur Bigge.

Mr, Ritchie to Sir Arthur Bigge.

House oe Commons Libeaky, Wi March J890.

Dear Sir Arthur, — I need hardly say how glad
I should be if I could see my way to doing anything
^ See vol. ii, pp. 4S0-1.

18901 MR. RITCHIE’S EXPLANATION 81

effectual to remedy the grievances in connection with
the Thames floods in which the Queen takes so much
interest. I have been making enquiries as to whether
any powers are vested in the Board of Trade which
would tend to prevent a recurrence of the calamity
of which just complaint has been made ; but I am
afraid that such powers are of a very limited character.
The Thames Conservancy Board are a navigation and
not a drainage authority, and though, to a certain
extent, their action with regard to the navigation
would affect the possible results of floods of a certain
gravity, it is extremely improbable that anything
they could do under their Act would diminish the
probability or modify the influence of the heavy floods
which have caused the suffering and misery referred
to by her Majesty. A difficulty in the way, even
with the limited action which the Thames Conser-
vancy can take, arises from the attitude adopted by
millowners in the upper part of the river, who
strenuously object to any reduction in the statutory
level of the water, and also by occupiers of low-
lying lands who benefit by the periodic flooding of
these lands. Further difficulty is caused by the
attitude of certain Eton and Windsor residents,
who persist in their refusal to incur any expenditure
for the prevention of the floods of which they
complain.

I have, however, agreed to receive a deputation of
residents in and near Windsor interested in the ques-
tion, and will learn from them what action they think
the Thames Conservancy Board may be usefully
pressed to take, and after having received the depu-
tation, I shall be in a position to determine whether
the steps whieh it is desirable to take can in any way
be furthered by my department. It must, however,
be remembered that the Board of Trade have no
powers whatever as regards drainage. The Local
Government Board is the department charged with
questions of flood prevention. Having regard, how-
ever, to the interest which the Queen takes in the

82 QUEEN AND ASHANTI EXPEDl'lTON Ic’ifAr. xn

matter and to bhe iiudoubted gnivil.y of the quc'stion,
you may rest assured bliat 1 will do all 1 ean, in con-
juiietion with the Local Govcrnmenb Board, bo bring
about a better condibion of bhings bhan has mihappily
previously prevailed. 1 am, dear Sir Arbhur, yours
very truly, C. T. Bitciiie.^

[Copy.] Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

WiNiisoii Castlu, Sih March 1890.

Dear Lord Lansdowne, — . . . Her Majesty does
not think that the decoration which she wishes to
give to aU who took part in the Ashanti Expedition
should be of the character of a memorial to Prince
Henry of Battenberg. The Queen would like it to
be a mark of her appreciabion of the manner in
which the expedition was carried out, in a deadly
climate, an expedition in which two Princes of bhe
Royal Family served, and where the rank and file
showed grcab pluck and endurance, although there
was no fighbing.

The Queen bhcrcforc makes Ihc following ])ro])osal,
and trusbs there may be no difliculty in cariying it
out, that the decoration should take bhe form of a
small Latin Cross, and bear upon it bhe inscription,
“ The Queen’s Cross, Ashanti, 181)C.” “ Yours very
truly, Arthur Bigge.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 8th March 1896. — Lenchen,"
Christian, and Christie came to luncheon, and the
latter gave me King Prempeh’s ** umbrella, stool, and

^ Six Arthur Bigge replied on 8th March that the Queen, while
thanking Mr. Ritchie, trusted “ that the deputation which you have
consented to receive will appreciate your good intentions, and on their
part facilitate your action by pendent suggestions as to the future action
to be adopted by the Thames Conservancy Board.” See below, p. 86.

^ The War Office and the Commander-in-Chief had objected to the
Queen’s proposal, on the ground that there was no precedent for giving
a medal where there had been no fighting. But the Queen persisted.
Eventually, the Cross was changed for a Star to meet the probable
objection of the Foussas to the Christian symbol.

’ Princess Christian. . ^ The Kinv of Ashanti.

1896] NILE ADVANCE SANCTIONED 33

chair. Feo ^ also came to luncheon, and showed me
the statuette she is doing of Liko in his campaigning
uniform.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.^

12th March 1896. — ^Humble duty. Strong repre-
sentations from Italy and also from Egypt induced
the Cabinet to think it desirable to authorise a
diversion being made to prevent dervishes from
taking Kassala.

We thought that the safest way of doing so was
to authorise an advance of Egyptian troops as far as
Dongola. As no time was to be lost, I telegraphed to
Lord Cromer ^ at once. We acted, of course, in concert
with the Commander-in-Chief.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Grand H6tel de Cimiez, ISth March 1896. — I
highly approve proposed action to help the poor
Italians.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

16th March 1896. — . . . Italian Government on
Saturday night changed their mind again, and resolved
to hold on to Kassala.® After consultation with mili-
tary authorities we have resolved on an advance up
the Nile, having for its ultimate object the occupation
and retention of Dongola. Time and manner must
depend on military exigencies, and on position and
movements of enemy, of which at present we know
nothing. This was result of Cabinet to-day. I quite
agree with your Majesty as to Lord Cromer’s letter.

1 Countess Feodoia Gleichen.

“ British Consul-General in Egypt.

* On the 14th, Lord Salisbury had telegraphed that the Italian
Cov'^rimnent bar! resolved to eY"Cunte Ws> la.

84 FX4YPT1AN DliiBATE TN COMMONS ItHAi-. xn

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

IGtIi March 1806. — ^Your cypher of to-day.
Approve decision, but in lace of Lord L]’onier\s
opinion ^ am a little anxious.

Shall be glad to know something of composition
of force, and hope to hear that enough troops will be
sent.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 16 th March 1896. — -Mr. Bal-
four with his humble duty to your Majesty begs
humbly to inform your Majesty that the rumours
current in the newspapers respecting the proposed
advance up the Nile Valley led naturally to an imme-
diate discussion in the Ilouse of Commons. There
was some doubt as to what form the discussion should
take, but Mr. Labouchere finally settled the question
by moving tlic adjournment. He made a charac-
teristic speech attacking the Covormnent, the Italians,
the policy of I’ctaining Lgy])t, the i)olicy ol’ advancing
towards Hongohi. Hir Charles Dilke followed on the
same side, but in a more earnest and statesmanlike
manner. He seemed to sujiposc that tlic Govci'nmcut
were committed to a policy of advancing not merely
to Hongola but to Darfur ,• and he proplicsied every
species of disaster from such an enterprise. Sir W.
Harcourt followed ; but he contented himself with
dark prophesyings, and reserved his main attack till
a later date. Mr. Balfour followed. He stated that
the policy of the Government was based on the double
set of considerations arising out of the recent defeat
of the Italians, the siege of Kassala, and the desira-

1 It is clear, Trom what Lord Cromer wrote in Modern Egypt, vol. ii,
pp. 88, 8-1, that, while he agreed that the policy of eventual reconquest
of the Soudan was sound, he thought that the decision of the Govern-
ment was taken after inadequate consideration. “ At the time, I was
inclined to think the action premature, but there could be no doubt
that, when once it had been decided to act, no effort should be spared
to ensure success. ... It was manifest that the advance should either
not be undertaken at all, or else that it should be irtade with the inten-
tion of permanently occupying the country at once as far as Dongola,
and eventually at least as far as Kliartoum.”

189C] r)R. WARRE ON THAMES FLOODS 35

biliLy of cliecking by a timely advance the possibility
of a fresh outburst of fanaticism. The adjournment,
after a speech of Mr. Courtney directed as usual
against the party to which he belongs, was rejected
by a majority of over 140.i . . .

Dr. Warre ® to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Eton College, Windsor, 20t/i March 1896.

Deae Sir Arthur Bigge, — I called to-day at the
Winchester Tower, and found that you had gone to
London. I should have liked to have told you about
the Deputation to Mr. Ritchie and its result,^

I am afraid that, notwithstanding sympathy
expressed, it will be very difficult to move the Con-
servancy Board, on which there are only 6 representa-
tives of the Upper River, against 82, who care nothing
for our misfortunes.

The only real way out of the present utterly unjust
condition of things is legislation dividing the juris-
diction over the tidal waters of the Thames from that
over the non- tidal waters, assigning the latter to a
totally different body, and giving them the con-
tribution of the Water Companies as their Sustenta-
tion Fund, with full powers to improve the river with
a view to faulty navigation and prevention of floods.
This is what we shall have to agitate for, but I suppose
it will take some time. . . . With kind regards,
yours very sincerely, Edmond Warre.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Cimiez, 21s'i March 1896. — The Queen is delighted
to see what large majorities the Government have
had, and how strongly and well Mr. Chamberlain
and of course Mr. Balfour have spoken about Egypt.

1 On 20tli March, Mr. Morley moved a vote of censure on the Govern-
ment policy in the Soudan ; but was beaten by 288 to 145.

2 Headmaster of Eton 1884-1905, Provost 1909-1920.

® The Queen, when Mr. Ritchie sent her Majesty his report on the
Deputation, directed Sir Fleetwood Edwards to reply on 27th March
that she trusted “ that some means may he found to insist upon action
being taken in the direction suggested by the Deputation, with a view
of mitigating, if not preventing, the evils complained of.”

TTT 4

86 THE EMPEROR FRANCIS JOSEPH [c-iiap. xii

It is veiy satisfactoiy to tjee how pleased the
Emperor of Austria ^ is by the gift of the Colonelcy-
in-Chief of the Eirst King’s Dragoon Guards. He
was most cordial, felt rather anxioiiLS about the East,
but said (though he evidently regretted it) that he
quite understood the impossibility of our binding
ourselves to any particular policy which might lead
us into war. He hoped our countries would always
go together, and repeated several times how important
it was that England and Germany should be on the
best terms together, and one thing he felt sure of, viz.
that everyone wished for peace. He thought Lobanoff ®
very clever, but did not know what his policy was.
The Queen regretted Kalnoky, which he also did, but
said that it was impossible to keep him, and he recom-
mended Count Goluchowsky ® very much. . . .

We have had beautiful weather ; but alas ! the
contrast to last year is very great, a heavy cloud
overhangs our poor house everywhere, and all seems
to have lost its charm and interest, though the beauti-
ful scenery and vegetation arc sootliing and enjoyable.
We are well and the beloved Princess quite admirable
in her courage and patient resignation.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

21st March (1896). — ^Humble duty. Debate and
majority 145 last night very satisfactory.

On the present lines of gradual but sure advance,
present policy is popular. Lord Cromer presses now
very earnestly that we should ultimately advance to
Dongola and should not retreat again.

French Ambassador renewed his assurances that
the French Government do not wish to drive us out
of Egypt, nor to introduce any sort of International
Government. He wished consideration for the feel-

^ The Emperor and Empress of Austria had visited the Queen at
Cimiez on 13th March.

“ Russian Foreign Minister.

® Austrian Foreign Minister.

1890] DONGOLA OUR IMMEDIATE AIM 37

ing's of France. I poinLed out Lhat the presence of
our troops was the keystone of the whole structure
of our authority there. He seemed to admit it, but
only pressed generally for friendly action on our part
primarily. I suggested that he should see Lord
Cromer when he comes away on leave. He seemed to
assent to this. . . .

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.\

CiMiEz, 22w(i March 1896. — Rejoice to hear of
the intended proposal not to retire from Dongola.
We each time hitherto always retired, and had always
to do the work over again.

Every day I feel the blessing of a strong Govern-
ment in such safe and strong hands as yours.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Naples, 24ith March 1896, — When we were just
steaming out of Genoa a letter from you was thrown
on board. I was unable to answer it, as it was im-
possible to stop the ship. I therefore by telegraph
venture to express my warmest thanks for the kind
letter, and hope that the stay at Cimiez will in every
respect be good for yoiu’ precious health. So glad
Aunt Beatrice is going on well. Our journey was good
but rather foggy. Henry and Ir^ne ^ well, very sorry
meeting was impossible. William.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Cimiez, 29th March 1896. — Saw Lord Salisbury
and had a good deal of talk with him on all subjects :
Egypt, and the necessity of getting the Soudan back,
and of preventing the Italians being further defeated,
which this time they have been by the dervishes ; of
the Russian and French opposition being really too
preposterous, as any measures taken have nothing
whatever to do with them, but are solely for the safety
of Egypt and also to afford some help to the poor

1 Prince and Princess Henry of Prussia.

38 GOVERNMENT EOITCATION BILT. [ctiap. xtt

Italians ; of the outbreak in Matabeleland; of Germany
and William’s wish to put things straight again.

Mr, Balfour to Queen Victoria.

10 Downing Street, 31.si March 1896. — . . . At
twelve o’clock this morning Sir John Gorst introduced
the Government measure on Education. He made a
statement of admirable lucidity ; and one which was
very well received by the House. The measure is
intended to effect four main objects : (1) the support
and preservation of voluntary schools ; (2) the de-
centralisation of our existing system of elementary
education ; (3) assistance to poor board schools ;
(4) the organisation of secondary schools. These are
objects of very great magnitude ; and the machinery
for carrying them out is necessarily complicated.
Moreover, the whole question of primary education is
so embittered by sectarian jealousies and bitter con-
troversies of long standing that we cannot hope for
our Bill an easy passage through its various Parlia-
mentary stages. Nevertheless, the first of these stages
has been got through as successfully as the most
sanguine supporter of the Government had dared to
hope, which, so far, is of good augury for the future.
The debate died away about 5.80, and the House
separated for the holidays.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

\CypheT Telegram.]

CiMiEZ, 2nd April 1896. — I am much grieved at
the outburst in Matabeleland, and at the terrible
murders of whites. I fear it will not be easily put
down.

Fear also Sir H. Robinson is not fit for all these
emergencies. What do you mean to do ?

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

10 a.m., Srd April 1896.- — Your Majesty’s telegram
received. No fresh outrages are reported. Men,

1896] ENGLAND AND RUSSIA 39

arms, and ammunition, are being sent up, and I am
in communication with the War Office as to temporary-
loan of officers from regiment in South Africa.

Sir H. Robinson is of course no longer young ;
but your Majesty may be I think assured that he is
alive to the situation, and is taking all necessary
precautions. His reputation for wisdom and coolness
gives confidence in times of emergency such as the
present.

Extracts from the Queen'’ s Journal.

CiMiEZ, Qth April 1896. — ^Very soon after luncheon,
dear Minny of Russia [the Empress-Mother] and her
two youngest children, Michael and Olga, arrived. I
received her at the door. She looks still very young,
though very sad, so like dear Alix in her way of speak-
ing, and very simple. She talked much of dear Alicky,
Nicky, ^ and the baby. I spoke to her about being very
unhappy, that, since the death of M. de Giers, Russia
was no longer nearly so friendly to England, and
begged her to mention this to Nicky. She said she
would do so, and could not understand the coolness.

Sth April, — I saw Lord Salisbury, who seemed very
well. Spoke of the incredible behaviour of Russia,
who was urging and encouraging France against us
with regard to Egypt. He said there was no sensible
statesman in England who was not anxious for a
good understanding with Russia ; but there is a feel-
ing amongst our people against her, and, if she shows
herself to be so unfriendly, it will make it very difficult
for the Government. Speaking of Egypt, Lord
Salisbury said that the ultimate object and intention
was to go to Khartoum and restore it to Egypt, but
time was needed for that.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.]

CxMiEZ, ISi/i April 1896. — ^Fear my opinion of Sir
H. Robinson is shared by many. You should be
prepared to send someone to succeed him.

^ The Emperor and Empress of Russia.

40

SIR H. ROBINSON AND S. AFRICA [chap, xn

Only a few days ago he would not hear of troops
being sent up, and now he is doing just the
reverse. . . .

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.^

15th April [ 1896 ], 9.20 p.m. — Humble duty. I
have consulted many authorities having local and
intimate knowledge of South Africa, and they confirm
me in the opinion I have formed, that for guerilla
warfare or contests with native tribes British and
Imperial troops are much less suited than the local
volunteer forces.

The previous war in Matabeleland was successfully
carried through at a comparatively small cost. Had
Imperial troops been employed, it would have been
as expensive as Warren’s expedition, which cost nearly
a million. British troops are less mobile than Colonial
forces, and are not accustomed to native warfare.
For these reasons I agree with Sir H. Robinson in
thinking that the former should be only used in an
emergency. In the present case it appeared probable
that they could be moved to the front more quickly
than newly raised additional forces of volunteers.
The question of employing troops to put down the
rising is separate from the question of permanently in-
creasing the Cape garrison for Imperial reasons. War
Office is now arranging to carry out the latter object.

I desire earnestly to represent to your Majesty
the impolicy of making any change during the present
crisis. Dutch feeling is strongly excited at the Cape ;
and any false step might precipitate a war of races,
and involve this country in an enormous expenditure
and even considerable danger.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

^2nd April 1896 , — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully submits that a
Cabinet was held to-day. The principal subject of
discussion was the state of business in the House of
Commons. Mr, Balfour pointed out that unless more

41

1896] DEATH SENTENCES AT PRETORIA

time was given to the Government it would be im-
possible to pass Bills so full of difficulty and offering
so many points of attack as the Education Bill, the
Rating Bill, and the Irish Land Bill. After much
discussion it was resolved that on Friday Mr. Balfour
should move to give the Government the whole time
of the House.

The despatches and telegrams of Lord Cromer
were then considered. A telegram was drawn up,
informing Lord Cromer that Indian troops might be
sent to Suakin ; and that the English troops in Egypt
might be employed in the advance to Dongola. The
Cabinet at the same time expressed its reluctance to
send troops from England, in view of the events which
were passing in South Africa.

Some additional armoured gunboats were ordered
to be built for service on the Nile.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegrams.]

28th April [1896]. — . . . Following is the first of
the further telegrams to High Commissioner :

“ Unless you obtain a satisfactory reply imme-
diately, it is desirable that you should go to Pretoria
to use influence. Her Majesty’s Government could
not tolerate the execution of death sentence ^ on men
who surrendered arms on your representation.”

11 p.m. — . . . Following is text of second of the
further telegrams to High Commissioner :

“ Telegraph names of four prisoners sentenced to
death, also number of others sentenced to imprison-
ment and fines ; does this dispose of all the prisoners ?
When you deal with question of commutation bear in
mind that sentences now passed are unexpectedly
severe and excessive, and that we assume they wiU be
all reduced in a spirit of moderation and with a view
to allay race feeling and prevent further irritation.”
Chambeblain.

1 The death sentence had heen passed on the four principal Uitlandei
Reformers tried at Pretoria. See Introductory Note.

42 DEATH SENTENCES REMITTED [chap, xii

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.^

CiMiEZ, 2'dth April 1896. — ^Many thanks for keep-
ing me so well informed. Feel very anxious about
South Africa. Highly approve your firm tone and
action. Cannot think Kruger (whom with his Volks-
raad I greatly distrust) will commit so monstrous an
act as to carry out the sentences.

We leave in less than an hour. Pray send news on
to the principal stations, as I am most anxious to hear.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

2dth April 1896, 4 p.m. — ^Humble duty. Following
telegram just received from Sir Hercules Robinson
April 29 th :

“ Following telegram received from British Agent
to South African Republic : ‘ April 29. Doctor Leyds
just told me that sentence of death has been taken off
from the four prisoners. Not yet decided what
punishment to substitute. Executive Council now
engaged with sentences on all prisoners.’ ”

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 5th May 1896. — . . . A Cabinet
was held to-day. It was entirely occupied with the
South African situation, as developed by the tele-
grams recently published at Pretoria. It was resolved
that it would be impossible to grant a Parliamentary
enquiry so long as the Jameson trial is going on, as the
action of the Parliamentary Committee might pre-
judice the administration of justice. But an enquiry
into the working of the Chartered Company in South
Africa must be held ; and could not be delayed any
longer, when once the Jameson trial was over. It
was understood that the Company were prepared to
accept the resignation of Mr. Cecil Rhodes as adminis-
trator ; and it was resolved that the Government
should acquiesce in this step on the part of the
Company.

43

1896] THE QUEEN ON EDUCATION

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegrams.]

6th May 1896. — Sir F. Lascelles 22 of 5th May.
Think these messages should be received with much
reserve, and that it would be well to let the German
Emperor know we do not wish to quarrel with Russia.

[Same day.] — Cromer’s 132 makes me very
anxious. Hope there will be no delay in sending
Indian troops, and trust that plan of operations is
being carried out with full concurrence of home
military authorities. Lord Wolseley has no faith in
the fellaheen soldier.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram^

6th May 1896. — . . . Arrangements are now
being made for sending Indian troops to Suakin. A
regiment of fellaheen will be left at Suakin, by the
personal wish of the Khedive ; but the Indian troops
will be enough for its defence without the assistance
of the fellaheen.

'Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, IZlh May 1896. — ^After luncheon
held a Council and saw the Duke of Devonshire before.
Spoke with him on various things, and he remarked
on the enormous majority there had been the night
before, the largest ever known, being 267 This came
from the Irish Radicals having voted with the Govern-
ment, having been urged by the priests to support it,
as by this Bill all denominations would get more
power. I expressed the hope that in the debates
something would be able to be done, rendering educa-
tion more practical for the working classes, who were
being taught useless things. The Duke quite agreed,
and hoped this would be the case. It was intended to
give the management of the schools more to the
County Councils and less to the School Boards,® the

^ On the second reading of the Education Bill.

“ This policy was not carried out until the passage of Mr, Balfour’s
Eduction Bill of 1902,

U LORD ROBERTS’S WARRIOR CHARGER [chap, xii

latter being too exclusively bent on literary education,
whereas the former, composed of all classes, would be
sure to be more practical.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Duke of Portland.

Windsor Castle, I6th May 1896. — ^The Queen
having just instituted a new order to be given to those
who have rendered personal service to herself, wishes
to confer the Grand Cross upon the Duke of Portland
on the occasion of her birthday, as a mark of her
appreciation of his valuable services as Master of the
Horse at the present time, and also on the occasion
of her Jubilee,!

Lord Roberts to Sir Fleetwood Edwards.

The Royal Hospital, Dublin, 24ith May 1896.

Dear Edwards, — Will you please offer to the
Queen my most respectful thanks for being so gracious
as to give permission for my warrior charger to wear
the Afghan medal and Kandahar Star ? I am de-
lighted and most grateful.

On behalf of Lady Roberts, our son, daughters, and
myself, I beg to present to the Queen our respectful
duty and warmest congratulations on this her
Majesty’s birthday. Believe me, yours very truly,
Roberts.

The Queen Regent of Spain to Queen Victoria.
[Translation.]

(?) May 1896. — ^You can well imagine how, with this
war in Cuba, my heart is full of grief and sorrow.
We are now in a most critical position, as on the one
hand, the war being protracted, so many men perish
there in fighting and of illness, whilst, on the other, in
this country bad harvests and dearth of food are to be
expected. The attitude of the United States is also
very doubtful : whilst their Government promise us

! The Queen hestovred the new Ordei (the Royal Victorian Order)
on several members of her Household, on this year’s anniversary of her
birthday.

45

1896] QUEEN AND QUEEN MARIA CHRISTINA

neutrality and friendship, Americans send money,
arms, and ammunition to the insurgents, 'which of
course increases the resistance of our enemies. Presi-
dent Cleveland advises Spain to make concessions to
the rebels at once, in order to obtain peace ; but we
cannot make concessions to the Cubans till they lay
down their arms.

Mr. Cleveland also offers to act as a mediator
between the insurgents and Spain ; but this, above all
things, would hurt the national feeling of the Span-
iards, and I could never accept it, as we know how
sedulously they work in America against us in favour
of the insurgents. I therefore confidently turn to
you, dear aunt, to tell you my grief and sorrows, and
to entreat you to assist me in these trying circum-
stances, as you always have done, with your good
advice and with your powerful friendship.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

[25th May 1896,] — ^Letter from Queen Regent of
Spain. Lord Salisbury with his humble duty would
suggest that, after expression of deep sympathy, your
Majesty should reply that in your judgment little good
would come from proclaiming concessions, until the
revolt in Cuba is suppressed or at least until a con-
spicuous victory has been won. Reforms proclaimed,
until the rebels had been beaten, would not induce
them to lay down their arms. They would only be
encouraged to insist on entire independence. United
States will do all the mischief they can 'without going to
war. There is great goodwill in England towards Spain ;
but of course England cannot join in suppressing in-
surrection. She would be glad to give any assistance
that is possible without breaking her neutrality.

The Buke of Connaught to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Moscow, 2Qth May 1896. — Coronation just over in
splendid weather ; most glorious and impressive cere-
mony ; were four hours in church ; we left our house

4G CORONATION AT MOSCOW [ciiai>. xii

8.10 returned 4.35. Alix dressed in silver; both she
and Nicky were much moved with solemnity of the
occasion, both send their love. Minny looked very
sad. We are both so glad to have been able to assist
at this most interesting and historical ceremony.
Wish you good journey. Arthur.

The Emperor and Empress of Russia to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Moscow, 27th May 1896. — Tenderest thanks.
Thank God all went off well yesterday, glorious
sunshine. Nicky, Alix.

Sir Nieholas O'Conor ^ to Queen Victoria.

Moscow, Slst May 1896. — . . . A most unto-
ward and horrible catastrophe took place early
yesterday morning in the Khodinsky Plain, about
three miles from Moscow, a brief account of which
Sir N. O’Conor had the honour of transmitting by
telegraph to your Majesty.

The news of many accidents and several deaths
reached the Imperial Tribune before the arrival of
their Majesties ; but, although the fearful extent of
the calamity must have been unknown to few on the
Plain, there were none who did not greet the arrival
of the Emperor and Empress with frantic enthusiasm.
Far as the eye could reach there was a human sea
above which rose the hats of countless numbers too
far off to hope that their shout would reach the
Imperial ears, but anxious to demonstrate in the only
way possible their welcome. The booming of the
cannon and the cheers of the crowd made such a
deafening noise that the National Anthem, sung by
hundreds and thousands of young voices, was almost
lost in the general medley of sound and peals of
rejoicings. Again and again the Emperor and Em-
press had to show themselves in the front of the
Pavilion, and it was nearly four o’clock when their
Majesties retired. The Emperor passed through the

' British Ambassador in St. Petersburof.

ISOG] FOTXOWED BY DISASTEE 47

room of Lhe Corps Diplomatique looking unusually
pale, and his brow contracted, as if with some great
moral strain.

It is difficult to find in history any stronger in-
stance of unbounded fealty than was shown by
hundreds of thousands of Russian subjects who
yesterday, in the midst of the dead and dying, lost all
consciousness but that of loyal devotion to their
young Sovereigns, and forgot in their demonstrative
enthusiasm the sad sight from which they had just
come.

Their Imperial Majesties entered the Kremlin, only
to hurry off to the hospitals where they spent several
hours, comforting and consoling the wounded and
afflicted, and promising liberal provision for the
bereaved members of their families.

Even yet it is difficult to learn any complete
explanation of the causes of the accident, but certainly
there seems to have been a lamentable want of fore-
sight on the part of the police authorities in allowing
such a vast concourse of people to assemble overnight
and sleep on the ground, feeling probably the pangs
of hunger in the early morning, while aware that the
Emperor’s liberality provided countless repasts at
hardly a stone’s throw from where they lay or stood.

It appears that the ground was cut up by trenches
and very uneven, and once a forward movement
began nothing could stop the human wave that surged
over the bodies of the fallen. A particularly gruesome
tale is told of some wells that were covered with
boarding which gave way under the weight, carrying
with them all that were passing at the moment and
swallowing up those who came after till the whole
space was filled with agonising bodies. There are
scenes and incidents too terrible and harrowing for
the Queen’s ears, but, if there be in all this ghastly
story one bright feature, it is the certainty that not-
withstanding warnings from several places, and very
definite and specific ones from Switzerland, that an
attempt would be made by the secret Nihilist Societies

48

CONCERN SHOWN BY THE QUEEN [ctiap. xtt

on the hfe of the Emperor during the Coronation, the
police have not detected any trace or evidence what-
soever of such sinister designs, nor were any symptoms
of public discontent manifested by the people against
the authorities, notwithstanding the inefficiency of
the police precautions. Indeed, it is said that the
main concern of the peasantry who saw the terrible
scene was to know whether their Tsar and their
Tsaritsa would know of it, and how it could be kept
from their knowledge.

Sir Nicholas O’Conor called upon Prince Lobanoff
to-day and told his Excellency of the deep concern
shown by the Queen upon hearing the terrible news,
and at the same time expressed the deep sympathy
of your Majesty’s Government on the sad occasion.

The Emperor and Empress of Russia to Queen Victoria,
\Telegram,'\

Moscow, 2nd June 1896. — So deeply touched by
your kind thought at this terribly sad calamity ; your
dear words were indeed a comfort ; very best love.
Nicky, Alix.

Extract from the Queen's Journal,

Balmoral, 3rd June 1896. — ^Dear Georgie’s ^ birth-
day, may God bless, protect, and guide the dear boy !

Queen Victoria to Sir Nicholas O'Conor,
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle [? June 1896]. — I fear the
number of poor victims has increased. The papers
speak of a very angry feeling being evinced amongst
the people in Moscow. Trust there is [no] cause for
alarm or danger to the Emperor and Empress. Also
fear poor Serge as Governor [of Moscow] may be
blamed.

There seems to have been lamentable want of
proper prudence, i,e, allowing such a number of people
to collect in one spot, and to keep order. It is most
grievous.

^ Now H.M. the Kincf.

49

1896] THE COMMONS AND SOUTH AFRICA

Sir Nicholas O'Conor to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.']

Mh June 1896. — Pending result enquiry which will
probably be ended to-night, it is difficult to say exactly
where blame rests, although there appears to have
been almost criminal want of foresight on the part
of the police.

There is naturally considerable popular discontent,
but it will subside if severe punishment is given in
proper quarters after publication of official report.
I do not think there is any cause for alarm on account
of danger to Emperor and Empress.

Their Imperial Majesties have daily visited hos-
pitals, and are unremitting in attention to the suffering.
Their Imperial Majesties dine here to-night. . . .

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, Bth June 1896. — . . . On
the Colonial vote this evening Sir W. Harcourt made
an elaborate attack on Mr. Rhodes, based on the
cypher telegrams which have been recently divulged.
He went over each telegram in detail, and like a
Counsel for the prosecution, he showed (as unfor-
tunately he had no difficulty in showing) that Dr.
Jameson’s raid arose out of a deliberate conspiracy in
which Mr. Rhodes and Mr. Beit, directors of the
Chartered Company, were involved, and which was
promoted by resources which belonged to the Com-
pany. He loudly called for the immediate dismissal
of Mr. Rhodes, declaring that this course was necessary
in the interests of British honour and South African
security.

Mr. Chamberlain replied ; but, refusing to be
confined to the limited questions arising out of the
cyphered telegrams, he made a general survey of the
South African problem. He pointed out that har-
mony between the Dutch and English populations
was necessary to the future of South Africa. He
enumerated some of the difficulties which have in the
past disturbed that harmony ; and he gave a succinct

50 BATTLE OF FIRKET [chap, xii

account of the negotiations which have taken place
between him and President Kruger respecting the
visit of the latter to this country. He concluded by
pointing out the great services in the past which
Mr. Rhodes has rendered to South Africa. He did
not attempt to minimise his (Mr. Rhodes’) recent
errors ; but while promising to institute a full enquiry
into the management of the Company, he refused in
the meanwhile to require the Company to dismiss
Mr. Rhodes. The latter has been deprived of all
powers of evil. He may still be powerful for good,
and Rhodesia is in difficulties. Rhodesia ought not
to be compulsorily deprived of his services, at least
without further investigation. . . .

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 9th June 1896. — I am delighted
at the excellent news ^ from the Soudan Sunday and
to-day. It wiU do immense good. As on former
occasions, I telegraphed to the Sirdar through Lord
Cromer, congratulating him. Perhaps you would
desire Lord Cromer to offer my congratulations to the
Khedive. . . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

IMh June 1896. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully expresses his sincere thanks for your
Majesty’s very gracious letter.

Before receiving this your Majesty will have
received a full report of his speech on Friday, and will
have observed that the orders given to General
Kitchener were that he was not to go beyond Dongola
without leave. The object of this order is financial.
The further campaign from Dongola to Khartoum
may cost from one to two millions. Egypt has not
got the money : she is prohibited by International
Law from borrowing ; and there is at present no
appearance that either the Cabinet or the House of

Of the battle of Firket. See Introductoiy Note to this chapter.

1896] SLATIN ON THE DEAD EMIRS 51

Commons would be willing to impose the burden on
the British Exchequer. At present, therefore, the
money could not be obtained. It may be obtained
without difficulty later, as Egypt grows richer.

In 1884 it was the financial difficulty which placed
us at the mercy of Bismarck and of France. It led
to the disastrous Conference of London. It enabled
our enemies to exact what terms they pleased, because
Egypt was on the verge of bankruptcy. It would be
most unwise to tumble into that pitfall again.

[Translation.] Slatin Pasha ^ to Queen Victoria.

Fieket, ^Oth June 1896. — . . . The defeat of the
enemy was complete, whilst we had only 24 dead and
over 80 wounded. Immediately after the fight I rode
over the battlefield. I found the dead bodies of
Hamoda, the Commander-in-Chief, of Yusef Angerer,
commander of the enemy’s infantry, of Mohammed
Anif, the commander of their cavalry, and of
many others besides. I was moved by strange feel-
ings. I had been in personal intercourse with many
of these men during my captivity ; one or another
had been friendly to me, even sympathetic, but most
of them had been only intent upon annihilating or
upon humiliating the white race ; and now they lay
before me dead ... in just punishment of their
fanaticism in defending a bad cause. Many a one
of them, I dare say, had felt secret sympathy for
the Government, and inwardly had wished for the
termination of the lawless condition of his country
and to join us again, but they missed the favourable
moment, and who can, in a battle, separate the chaff
froih the wheat ?

The enemy’s wounded were taken care of, the
prisoners were treated well, and all of them were sent
to Wady Haifa as speedily as possible. They were
astonished at the clemency and the mercy with which

I An Austrian by birth, he was formerly Governor of Darfur, and
was long a prisoner in the hands of the dervishes. He was at this time
serving with the Intelligence Department of the Sirdar’s force. He
stayed at Balmoral in the autumn of 1895. See vol. ii, p. 565.

TTT — 5

52 QUEEN ON EDUCATION BILL [chap, xii

they were treated, they who by their predatory
excursions and murdering so many innocent people
had, I dare say, all deserved death. I visited the
prisoners in order to get information about our enemy
at Dongola, and in order to ascertain their number
and their intentions.

An Arab woman of the tribe of Habamiah, who
had seen me formerly at Darfur, recognised me ; she
had lost her husband and many relations in the
battle. “ Saladin ” (Slatin), she screamed at me, “ you
escaped in order to come back to us with fire ? ” I
declared calmly, not I, but the supreme Government
was going to reconquer this country for the sake of
order and security ; but she, who had left her country
in order to live on the prey made by her husband and
relations, should mind the Arab proverb, “ As the
sowing such is the reaping.” Well aware of the truth
of these words, she bent her head. . . .

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria,

20th June 1896. — Sir Arthur Bigge humbly reports
that he yesterday cyphered privately from himself to
Lord Cromer : “ Suppose all reasonable precaution
taken for Slatin’s safety, especially as regards possi-
bility of assassination by an emissary of Khalifa under
disguise of a deserter.” Lord Cromer replies : “ I do
not think there is much danger of assassination ; but
I will draw the Sirdar’s special attention to the sub-
ject.” 1

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.']

19th June 1896. — I am somewhat alarmed at the
position of the Government regarding the Education
Bill. The action of the Opposition is deplorable,
but even supporters of the Government now advocate
withdrawal of the main features of the BiU.

' Lord Cromer next day reported that the Sirdar had telegraphed :
‘ ‘ I don’t think there is any cause for alarm as to Slatin’s safety. All
arrivals from the enemy are carefully examined before entering the
camp, and kept under guard till the object of their coming is quite
olAor ”

18961 THE CABINET AND MR. RHODES 58

I doubt the prudence of Parliament adjourning
from August to January (of which proposal by the
way I was not informed), thus subjecting this im-
portant Bill to months of attack from political
agitators. Would it not be better for the Govern-
ment to stand by their measure and reassemble in
November, and pass it more or less intact ?

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, June 1896. — Fifty-nine years

since I came to the throne ! What a long time to
bear so heavy a burden ! God has guided me in the
midst of terrible trials, sorrows, and anxieties, and has
wonderfully protected me. I have lived to see my
dear country and vast Empire prosper and expand,
and be wonderfully loyal ! Received many kind
telegrams.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

20th June 1896. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully submits to your Majesty that a
Cabinet Council was held to-day. Some time was
passed in discussing the question of the payment of
the Indian troops and President Kruger’s telegram of
yesterday demanding the trial of Mr. Cecil Rhodes.
No change was made in the policy of the Cabinet as
already adopted in either case, but it was agreed that
Mr. Chamberlain should have a free hand in advising
the Board of the Chartered Company on the question
of accepting Mr. Rhodes’ resignation as Chairman.
He was advised, however, to abstain from any action
against Mr. Rhodes until the trial of Dr. Jameson was
over, and the precise facts which were provable had
been ascertained by the verdict of a jury.

The Cabinet then decided, according to the, re-
solution of the ten Members of the House of Commons
which was telegraphed to your Majesty last night, to
drop the Education Bill and to reintroduce it in
January. It was obviously impossible to proceed
with it in opposition to the views of all the Cabinet
Ministers who sit in the TTonse of Commont'.

54

QUEEN AND CABINET

[chap. XII

[Cypher Telegram.]

[Same day.] — Lord Salisbury with his humble duty.
I received your Majesty’s letter after the Cabinet was
over. I had expressed, in the strongest language I
could use, my sense of the great danger of the decision
to which they were coming. It would be giving an
tmexampled triumph to obstruction, and it would
gravely demoralise the Ministerial Party.

All the Members of the House of Commons
remained strongly in the determination to drop the
Bill. I am very uneasy as to the probable conse-
quences of this step.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

20th June 1896, 5.30 p.m. — I must earnestly beg
you to call another Cabinet and lay before it my
views before any announcement is made as to the
decision regarding the Bill.

I deprecate in the highest degree a step which I
consider may be disastrous to the Government,
especially when at this present moment, with so many
foreign difficulties, I feel more than ever the necessity
for preserving a bold front.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,
[Cypher Telegram.]

22nd June 1896. — . . . Cabinet was held according
to your Majesty’s commands ; and the question was
rediscussed. The Members of the House [of Commons]
remained imshaken in the view that it was impossible
to pass the Bill; and on this they were unanimous.
This result is partly due to unexampled obstruction
by the Opposition; partly to the character of the
subject, which was exceptionally complicated. The
Cabinet under these circumstances was compelled to
drop the Bill.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 22nd June 1896. — . . . The
main business of the early part of this evening was a
discussion on the dropping of the Education Bill.

1896] EDUCATION BILL DROEEED 53

Mr. Balfour moved a resolution which would have
the effect of putting an end to the measure for the
present session. He pointed out that the experience
of the last week conelusively showed that it was, so
to speak, physically impossible to pass the Bill in the
course of the present Session. It was easy for the
Opposition to keep discussion going until, by the mere
efflux of time, the period when next Session must
begin would come round. Under such circumstances
the Government would be in the disastrous position
of either abandoning, after many months’ debate, the
measure altogether, or of endeavouring to keep it alive
by some violent innovation on ordinary Parliamentary
procedure. This was not a course the Government
were anxious to pursue, nor were they prepared at
present to proceed by the drastic method of “ closuring
in compartments The only remaining alternative was
to drop the Bill for the present, and introduce one early
in January next, covering, at least in part, the same
ground. Mr. Balfour went on to deride the idea that
this course would do any material injury to the
Government, and pointed out that all Governments
in all Sessions had been compelled to pursue the same
course with regard to some of their most important
measures. He did^ however, anticipate that such
obstructive methods might at no distant date neces-
sitate such a change in the rules of procedure as might
deal a heavy blow at the prestige of the House of
Commons. Sir W. Harcourt replied, his chief point
being the withdrawal of the Bill was due rather to the
imperfections of the measure itself, and to the division
of opinion among its supporters as to its details, than
to the obstructive tactics of the Opposition. . . .

[Hra/L] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Balmoral Castle, 23rd June 1896. — cannot
refrain from expressing my deep regret at the
Cabinet’s decision to drop the Education Bill, and I
heartily sympathise with you in the situation in which
you have been placed.

56

PEERAGE FOR SIR H. ROBINSON [chap, xii

Mistakes in framing so complicated a Bill, and
miscalculation as to the opposition it might incur, I
can perfectly understand. But that a very strong
Government should on a Monday, with the unanimous
approval of its supporters, determine on a line of
action affecting a measure of first-class importance and
before the end of the week entirely abandon this
decision, seems to me incredible, and will not I fear be
any more understood by the country generally.

I earnestly trust that there will be no further with-
drawals of Queen’s Speech Bills.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House or Commons, 8Qth June 1896. — . . . Mr.
Chaplin moved the second reading of the “ Auto-
motor Car Bill,” the object of which is to remove the
absurd restrictions^ which the existing law imposes
upon mechanical carriages. The measure passed its
second reading, and was also referred to a Grand
Committee. . . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,

Foreign Oeeice, Srd July 1896. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully submits that a
peerage be conferred upon Sir Hercules Robinson.®
He is strongly recommended by Mr. Chamberlain for
the honour j and his long and distinguished career
during fifty years of public service, and as Governor
successively of several important Colonies, would fully
justify his promotion. He is now about to retire on
grounds of health, and the reward would have a good
effect on the Colonial serAdce.

Lord Salisbury has enquired into his fortune. He
is not rich; but the fortune seems to be adequate.

Uh July. — Lord Salisbury with his humble duty
respectfully submits that a Cabinet was held to-day.
The principal subject of deliberation was the enquiry

One of which was that the mechanical carriage must be preceded
by a man carrying a red flag.

^ Hp w"" crp tpd T.ord Ro'fnippd.

57

1896] COMMONS AND CHARTERED COMPANY

which must be instituted into the Chartered Company
and its administration as soon as the Jameson trial
is over. It appears that the Opposition object very
much to a joint Committee of the two Houses ; and
as it is desirable to avoid any party debates on a
subject which has many thorny incidents, it was
resolved to accept the view of the Opposition, and have
a purely House of Commons Committee. . . .

The Duke of Sparta^ to the King of the Hellenes.
{Cypher Telegram.]

Marlborough House, 26th July 1896. — The
Queen hears from Constantinople that the Powers
unanimously agreed in Constantinople not to interfere
with the Sultan in Crete rmless Greek Government
can restrain the importation of arms and ammuni-
tions and maintain peace. She has asked me to beg
you to use your utmost influence to stop this grave
state of affairs. I promised to do so, and represented
the difficulty of preventing the sending of arms and
ammunition to Crete. Constantine.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury,
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, Slsf July 1896. — I hope you will not
join in a blockade of Greece which Prince Lobanoff
now proposes, which is shameful considering his
former proposals. He is a great misfortune. You
will have found the Duke of Sparta frank and sensible.
The King and Government are in a great difficulty.

I am sure you will require reinforcements in the
Soudan after the losses sustained by cholera. It is
most serious and sad.

The accounts from South Africa make me very
anxious.

The Duke of Sparta says it is most important that
the affair of Crete should be settled as soon as possible,
or else the King’s position will be untenable. , . .

1 The Duke of Sparta, afterwards King Constantine of the Hellenes,
was staying with the Prince and Princess of Wales, his uncle and aunt.

58

GREECE AND CRETE

[chap. XII

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 31st July 1896. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
submits that a Cabinet was held to-day. In conse-
quence of letters of enquiry which had been written
by the Sirdar and Major Wingate, ^ it was resolved that
after the occupation of Dongola the force should
cease to advance farther towards the south ; and
should only advance eastward along the banks of the
Nile as far as Merawi, where the cataract begins. An
advance to Abu Hamed, above the cataract, would
impose a greater financial burden on Egypt than she
is competent to bear.

The Cabinet were informed that several of the
Powers were disposed to suggest a naval blockade of
Crete in order to prevent the Cretans from obtaining
arms, and recruits in their struggle against the Sultan ;
and that Lord Salisbury had declined these overtures
on the groimd that England traditionally had always
refused to interfere by force between insurgent
populations and their Sovereign. Lord Salisbury
also added that the recent proceedings of the Ottoman
Government in Armenia made it very unfitting that
England should join in helping the Sultan to subdue
his subjects, unless there was some effective guarantee
that the Sultan would deal justly and mercifully with
his subjects. The Cabinet approved this policy. . . .

3rd Aug. — . . . Lord Salisbury will write to Mr.
Chamberlain with respect to Sir H. Robinson. When
Lord Salisbury wrote to your Majesty Sir H. Robinson
was suffering under dropsy, and had been tapped for
it ; and the doctors gave so bad an account of his
health that it was not thought possible that he would
take part in any active life again. But since your
Majesty granted the Peerage, Sir H. Robinson has
apparently quite recovered, and there is consequently
some difficulty. It is like the case of Sixtus the

1 Then Director of Military InteUigenoe, now General Sir Reginald
Wingate, G.C.B. ; Sirdar and Governor-General of the Soudan, 1899 -
1916 ; High Commissioner for Egypt, 1917-1919,

1896] LI HUNG CHANG AT OSBORNE 59

Fifth But Mr. Chamberlain certainly contemplates
replacing him, as he has been writing to Lord Salisbury
about candidates.

Extracts from the Queen^s Journal.

Osborne, Mh Aug. 1896. — Tea out, and drove with
Sophie and Ismay S. to Trinity Pier, where we em-
barked on board the Alberta. The Empress [Eugenie]
joined us, and my ladies and gentlemen were also on
board. We steamed up to Spithead and through the
really splendid Fleet. We went quite close to the large
ships, amongst which was the Blenheim. We turned
and passed through the Torpedo boats.

5th Aug . — Everybody was on the qui vive on
account of the Chinese Ambassador. Took a short
turn and sat in the tent. The Chinese Ambassador,
Li Hung Chang, “ arrived at one, and Bertie and
Georgie came earlier and called on him. They lunched
with us, and the Ambassador with the Household in
the Durbar Room. Afterwards I went to the Drawing-
room, where all the family and my ladies and gentle-
men were assembled. Lord Salisbury introduced
Li Hung Chang, who made a speech which was trans-
lated by his son into badly pronounced English, and
I replied ; “It gives me great pleasure to receive you
here and to make the acquaintance of so distinguished
a Chinese statesman, who has devoted his life to the
service of his Sovereign and country ^ It will always
be my earnest desire to maintain the most friendly
relations with China, and to promote commercial
interests between our two countries. I hope you will
enjoy your stay in England and, when you return to
China, that you will inform the Emperor of my best
wishes for his welfare and prosperity, as well as for
that of his country.” This was again answered by
the interpreter, first in Chinese and then in English.

' The better opinion now seems to be that the story that Pope
Sixtus feigned decrepitude in the Conclave, in order to win votes, is
a pure invention.

“ This famous Chinese statesman had attended the Coronation at
Moscow, and afterwards visited several European capitals.

60 QUESTION OF LONGEST REIGN [chap, xii

I asked a few other questions, and then Li Hung
Chang retired as he came. Saw Lord Salisbury
afterwards, who spoke of the Ambassador, to whom I
gave the Grand Cross of the Victorian Order, and said
he was a very shrewd man.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

'1th Aug. 1896. — Lord Salisbury humbly submits.
Your Majesty’s Government have accepted the good
offices of Portugal in settling the question of Trinidad,^
and her decision is in favour of Brazil.

Our action has greatly assisted the Government of
M. de Soveral, whose position was precarious and
required immediate support. England will have right
to land cable.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Sir Matthew Ridley.
[Copy,] OsBOKNE, 7ih August 1896.

Dear Sir Matthew, — Communications are being
now almost daily received regarding the fact that
within a few weeks the Queen will have reigned longer
than any other British Sovereign ; and various sug-
gestions are offered, and enquiries made, as to the
most fitting manner of celebrating the event.

The Queen, however, feels strongly that all such
recognition and celebration should be reserved until
her Majesty has actually completed the reign of
sixty years.

Her Majesty therefore proposes that the Home
Office should make some public announcement to this
effect. Do you see any objection to such a course ?
If not, will you kindly submit the terms of the Com-
munique for the Queen’s approval ? “

If you think it necessary to do so, pray mention

' Not the well-known West Indian Colony, but an uninhabited
island in the South Atlantic, the possession of which had been disputed
between England and Brazil.

2 Such an announcement was drafted, approved by Lord Salisbury,
submitted to the Queen, and published.

1896] QUEEN AND LORD WOLSELEY 61

the subject to Lord Salisbury. Yours very truly,
Arthur Bigge.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Viscount Wolseley.

Osborne, 7th Aug. 1896 . — . . . The Queen seizes
this occasion to make a Tew observations to Lord
Wolseley which she feels sure he will take in good
part. Every word he utters or writes, now that he is
in such a high and responsible position, is weighed not
only at home but also abroad.

With regard to India the Queen hopes that Lord
Wolseley will exert his influence to soothe the jealousy
which many people consider exists between the Home
and Indian army. Lord Wolseley, in his evidence
before the Royal Commission, said “ that India pro-
duced a great number of the ablest officers in the army,
but they Imew very little of the organisation of the
Imperial Army . . . that he would not like to fight
France or Germany or any other army with Indian
troops.”

His opinion that India ought to pay every farthing
of military and naval expense is hardly in accord with
that of the general public. The telegram from Simla
says ; “ The high authorities consider Lord Wolseley’s
opinions as ill-judged, and calculated to create dis-
content in the Native army.” It is this which causes
the Queen much regret and anxiety. She has always
wished that the Home and Indian armies should
consider themselves as one. . . .

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

10th Aug. 1896 . — Lord Wolseley . . . appreciates
deeply the honour done him by the Queen in writing
to him, and in giving him such good and useful advice.

He is frequently obliged to distribute prizes, and
to take part in proceedings, where, much to his regret,
as he hates speaking, he is called upon to say some-
thing. He strives upon these occasions to hide truth
and honesty under the banalities of modern custom.
But, do what he may, his enemies twist his remarks

62 LORD WOLSELEY ON INDIAN ARMY [chap, xii

into attacks upon men or systems which were not in
his thoughts at the time, much less the objects of his
remarks.

Lord Wolseley has never thought there was in
recent years any rivalry, much less antagonism,
between the Indian and what he may term the Home
army. Ever since the Queen took over the direct
Government of India, there has been, in Lord
Wolseley’s opinion, but one British Army ; and he
draws, and has never drawn any distinction between
what some people still call the Queen’s army and the
Indian army. As regards the officers, he thinks the
best men in both of those so-called two armies should
be brought to the front in all parts of the Queen’s
Dominions. . . .

As regard the Indian army generally. Lord
Wolseley . . . knows and highly appreciates their
good and gallant qualities. But when, being ex-
amined by a Royal Commission, he is asked if the
British Cavalry force maintained in India could not
be safely withdrawn or reduced, he felt bound to
answer “ No.” This answer at once led to the ques-
tion being put to him by a civilian member of the
Commission : “ But are not the Indian Cavalry regi-
ments quite as good as the English regiments ? ”

Lord Wolseley is strong on this point, for he
believes that the great mutiny -of 1857 was to a con-
siderable extent due to the fact that the old East
India Company had so pampered its sepoys that they
began to believe themselves quite equal to the English
soldier. To use an Afghan expression they had “ got
wind in their heads.” . . . The history of all the great
Empires, made up, as the Queen’s Empire is, with
auxiliary troops of many races and many creeds, is a
warning against allowing the auxiliary to imagine
himself his master’s equal.

On the other hand. Lord Wolseley is often shocked
when he is told of the rudeness and vulgarity of
Indian officials and of their families to the Princes
and gentry of India. It is impossible to do too much

1896] LI AND SIR W. HARCOURT 63

to make them feel that we accept them with open
arms as our friends and social equals ; but he would
never flatter the native soldier by allowing him to
think himself the equal of the British soldier as a
fighting man. Lord Wolseley thiaks it would be
highly dangerous to the Empire to do so. . . .

Lord Wolseley writes this in no argumentative
spirit, for he well knows that the Queen’s vast
experience in these as in other public matters dwarfs
all he may Imow into very small proportions, but he
would like the Queen, in forgiving his shortcomings,
to realise that he neither speaks nor writes without
premeditation and serious thought.

Lord Wolseley hopes that the Queen, with the for-
bearance she has always shown him, will forgive this
long letter.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Hatfield, 9th Aug. 1896. — Lord Salisbury with
his humble duty respectfully submits to your Majesty
that he delivered your Majesty’s message to Li Hung
Chang, who received it very gratefully. He spent
three hours here yesterday and saw a good many
people ; but imfortimately the Saturday sitting of the
House of Commons kept a good many away whom he
ought to have seen. Sir William Har court among
others was here, and was presented to Li. “Are you
not a great friend of Lord Rosebery’s ? ” said Li.
Sir William hesitated for a good minute, and at last
plucked up his courage and said “ Yes.” But then
Li went on, “ Did not you and Lord Rosebery take
the side of Japan in the war against China ? ” Sir
William promptly broke off the conversation. . . .

Queen Victoria to Sir Nicholas O’Conor.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, 9th Aug. 1896. — Would you let the
Emperor be told or tell him yourself that I intended
his visit to be a private one to the Empress’s Grand-
mother ; I would not have a Minister there when he

64 DR. JAMESON’S OFFICERS [citap. xii

came, or ask his Ambassador unless he wished it ?
The space is extremely limited. At Leith there would
of course be a reception.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.

War OrFicE, 12th Aug. 1896. — Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he begs
to explain to your Majesty the steps which, with the
concurrence of his colleagues, he thinks should be
taken in reference to the officers implicated in the
recent raid into the territory of the South African
Republic. These officers fall under three classes :

1. The five who were convicted with Dr. Jameson.

2. The eight who were discharged by the magistrate
at Bow Street.

3. Col. Frank Rhodes, who was convicted at
Pretoria of conspiracy against the Republic.

With regard to Class 1, there would appear to be
little room for doubt. The five officers comprised in
it have been convicted by a duly constituted Civil
Court of having been engaged in the preparation of,
and of having taken part in, a military expedition
against a State with which your Majesty was at peace.
Lord Lansdowne shares the opinion of his military
advisers that they should not be permitted to continue
in your Majesty’s service, and he proposes that they
be called upon to resign their commissions. The case
of Colonel Rhodes also, though not identical with
those of the five officers above referred to, must, Lord
Lansdowne thinks, be similarly dealt with.

The cases of the eight officers discharged at Bow
Street present considerable difficulty. Though they
may be held to have been exonerated by the Magis-
trate’s decision from the charge of scheming or pre-
paring the raid, they undoubtedly took part in it, and,
by that grave offence, have laid themselves open to
the same penalty as is proposed for the principal
offenders.

Believing, however, that they, or some of them,
may have acted under the impression that they were

1S9C] AND THEIR ARMY COMMISSIONS 65

bound to obey the orders of their superior officers, or
that possibly they had no knowledge of the fact that
the leaders of the expedition received orders to return,
Lord Lansdowne has thought it desirable to call upon
them for any explanation of their conduct which they
may desire to offer. . . .

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, IMh Aug. 1896. — Mr. Chamber-
lain . . . begs to submit the following arrangements
for your Majesty’s approval.

After the continuous work of the last seven months
he proposes to take a short holiday ; and, as Mrs.
Chamberlain is anxious to visit her parents who are
now unable to come to this country, he desires to take
her to the United States on 26th August and to spend
two or three weeks there, returning to England in the
early part of October. During Mr. Chamberlain’s
absence Lord Lansdowne will attend to any matter
which may arise, requiring the signature of a Secretary
of State.

Mr. Chamberlain proposes, with Lord Salisbury’s
approval, to take this opportimity of seeing Mr. Olney,
the Secretary of State of the United States, and of
conferring with him, unofficially, in reference to the
boundary between Venezuela and your Majesty’s
colony of British Guiana.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cypher Telegram.^

15th Aug. 1896. — ^Before I reply to your letter
about the officers concerned in Jameson’s raid, I am
anxious to know whether any decision regarding them
should not be deferred until the House of Commons
Committee has issued its report.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.

Wae Office, 17th Aug. 1896. — Lord Lansdowne
. . . ventures to advise your Majesty that it would
not be desirable to defer a decision with regard to

CONVICTED OFFICERS

66

[chap. XII

these officers until after the House of Commons
Committee has reported.

The Committee cannot begin its work until next
year, and the long delay would, imder any circum-
stances, be unfortunate. The delay which has already
occurred has been unfavourably commented upon, but
Lord Lansdowne believes that, irrespectively of this
consideration, the proper course to pursue is that of
following the decision of the court by which the
officers were tried. They have been convicted by that
court, and the resignation of their commissions is the
natural consequence of that conviction. Nothing
which the House of Commons Committee may elicit
can alter the finding of the court.

Lord Lansdowne takes this opportunity of inform-
ing your Majesty that he has now completed the
examination of the cases of the eight officers who were
discharged by the magistrate. These officers im-
doubtedly took part in the raid, but were not formd
guilty of organising it, and all of them on being ques-
tioned apart distinctly [said] that they believed them-
selves to be acting in obedience to the orders of their
superior officers. Under these circumstances, Lord
Lansdowne thinks that they should be ordered to
return to duty with their regiments.

Lord Lansdowne trusts that the manner in which
he proposes to deal with both sets of officers will have
your Majesty’s full approval.

Lord and Lady Lansdowne are leaving London
to-night for the west coast of Ireland, where they
hope to spend the next few weeks

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

\ Co ' py ^ Osborne, 18th August 1896.

My dear Lord Lansdowne, — ^The Queen desires
me to let you know that after reading your letter of

1 In a letter of the same date to Sir Arthur Bigge, marked Con-
fidential, Lord Lansdowne adds : “ Supposing that the House of
Commons Committee were to put an entirely new face on the matter,
there would, I imagine, he no reason why the ease should not be recon-
sidered, but for the present the findinp' of the Court holds the field.”

1896] TO RESIGN COMMISSIONS 67

yesterday to H.M. and also your “ Confidential ” to
me, she gives her approval to the course which you
advise should be adopted with regard to the five
officers who were convicted, and are now undergoing
sentence of the court, for their participation in Dr.
Jameson’s raid. The Queen at the same time notes
what you say as to the possibility of reconsidering
the case in the event of the House of Commons
Committee proving facts which might throw a new
light upon it.

In your previous letter you mentioned that you
feared that Colonel Rhodes would have to be dealt
with similarly to the five who were convicted. But
the Queen does not gather that she is now asked to
definitely approve of his being retired from the army.^

H.M. is glad to think that the services of those
officers who were discharged by the Magistrate are to
be retained. Yours very truly, Arthue Bigge.

The Prince of Montenegro to Queen Victoria.
[TdUgramme.]

Cettinje, 18 Aout 1896. — J’ai le bonheur de
faire part a votre Majestd des fiangailles de ma fille
bien-aim& Helene avec son Altesse le Prince H6ritier
d’ltalie. — Nicolas.

[TeUgramme.] The Queen of Italy to Queen Victoria.

Geessoney, 20 Aout 1896. — Je suis touchde de la
bonte avec laquelle votre Majeste veut bien prendre
part a notre grande joie. Nous ajouterons cette preuve
d’affection et de bienveillance k toutes celles dont
votre Majesty a comble notre cher fils, et pour les-
quelles nous vous gardens, ma chdre tante, la plus
affectueuse reconnaissance. Je transmettrai au Roi
a Cogne vos affectueuses paroles. — ^Margherita.

' In a letter to Sir Arthur Bigge on 20th August Lord Lansdowne
regretted that his second letter was not distinct as to Col. Rhodes.
He was to be treated in the same manner as the five convicted officers :
“ In some ways his conduct was more indefensible, for there can be no
doubt whatever as to the part wliich he took in promoting the raid,”

TTT — 6

es THE QUEEN’S EYESIGHT [chap, xii

Extract from the Queen’s J ournal.

Osborne, 2ith Aug. 1896. — ^After luncheon saw
the celebrated Professor Pagenstechcr from Wies-
baden, one of the greatest oculists in Europe, who is
in England on his own account, but came here to
Osborne especially to see me. He thoroughly exam-
ined my eyes, and feels sure he will be able to do some-
thing to improve my sight. The eyes he said were
quite healthy. Pie is very pleasing and gentle, and
encouraging. Mr. Nettleship, whom I had seen in
May, is a friend of his, and he wished him to come
down with him to see me.

Mr. Schomberg McDonnell ^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Personal and Confidential.

Fobeign Oppice, 24</i August 1896.

My dear Bigge, — hope you will treat this letter
as absolutely a private matter between yourself and
myself. I should not write on the subject, only I
happened to see in your letter to Greville some men-
tion of it ; viz. the anxiety which is felt in many
quarters that the Emperor [of Russia] should meet
Lord Salisbury.

This was the point on which I was so keen to see
you. I am told on excellent authority that, if this
meeting took place, it would be regarded on the Con-
tinent as the best possible augury for peaee, and
also as more likely than anything else to frustrate
Lobanoff’s anti-English tendencies ; whereas, if his
Majesty’s visit ends without his having seen Lord
Salisbury, all the foreign journalists, and others, will
infer that, however devoted the Tsar may be to the
Queen personally, he is as hostile to England as his
Chancellor.

I hear from private (not the ordinary diplomatic)
sources in Russia, that it is believed Lobanoff wanted
to try to settle the Cretan business without England ;
but that the Emperor would not stand it.

^ Lord Salisbury’s Private Secretary ; son of the 5th Earl of
Antrim ; afterwards Sir Schombere McDonnell, K.C.B.

1896] NEW BRITISH AGENT AT PRETORIA 69

I only arrived on Saturday, and have not yet seen
Lord Salisbury, so I do not know what his views are.
But I believe he unders bands that the Queen does not
want any Minister at Balmoral when the Emperor is
there ; and no doubt he is relieved at not having to
make a long journey north ; but I doubt if he is fully
awake to the effect that his attendance or his absence
may have on the Continent.

Pray do not mention to anyone that I have written
to you on the subject. Yours very truly, Schomberg
K. McDonnell.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 25ih Aug. 1896. — Saw Lord Salisbury and
spoke of the sudden death of the Sultan of Zanzibar,
which we feared was not a natural one . It will no doubt
cause difficulties in the succession. There are two
rivals, one of whom it is thought we ought to support.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

25th Aug. 1896. — Mr. Chamberlain submits the
name of Mr. William Conyngham Greene as successor
to Sir Jacobus de Wet as British Agent at Pretoria.
He is at present Secretary of Legation at Teheran, and
was once Charge d’ Affaires at Darmstadt, Athens, The
Hague, etc. He Icnows some Dutch ; is strongly
recommended by the Foreign Office, and Lord
Salisbury consents to his transfer.

It is thought advisable to have a person of some
experience and position to hold his own with the
French and German representatives at Pretoria.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 25th Aug. 1896. — . . . Lord
Rosmead has been weakened by his very serious illness
and Mr. Chamberlain understands that he does not
contemplate a long stay at the Cape. His return,
however, at this juncture is on the whole likely to be
very useful, as he possesses in a singular degree the
confidence of all parties in South Africa. At the

70 THE QUEEN AND THE ARMY [chap, xii

present moment what is most needed is a restoration
of confidence, and any change in the Pligh Commis-
sionership would probably have caused a revival of
alarming rumours.

Mr. Chamberlain has been anxiously considering
whom he might recommend to your Majesty as Lord
Rosmead’s successor, but the choice is very difficult
for such a responsible post, and will probably have to
be made outside the Colonial service. Mr. Chamber-
lain is afraid that it would be impossible to find a
suitable person who would be willing to go out in
advance of his appointment ; and his position would
be anomalous and might lead to friction. Meanwhile,
the appointment of a trained diplomatist of great
experience to take the place of Sir Jacobus de Wet
ought to strengthen the British position at Pretoria.
Mr. Chamberlain does not attach any importance to
the rumours, which are unconfirmed, of difficulties in
Ashanti. . . .

Mr. Chamberlain will gladly avail himself of your
Majesty’s gracious permission to write to your Majesty
from America.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Private. Derheen, ItENMARE, IWi August 1896.

My dear Bigge, — ^The Queen need have no
misgivings on the score of legality.

She can, whenever she is advised to do so, say to
any officer ; “I don’t think you are quite the sort of
man to suit me, and I therefore propose to get rid of
you ; go quietly ; if you don’t, 1 will turn you out.”
This is violent, but indispensable. If we are to be put
on om defence and made to disclose legal grounds
whenever we get rid of a “bad ticket,” the Army will
come to grief. . . . Yours, L.

[Telegram.] Foreign Office to Queen Victoria.

27th Aug. 1896. — ^Acting Agent telegraphs from
Zanzibar that Khalid paid no attention to ultimatum,

1896]

A CRISIS AT ZANZIBAR

71

refused to leave Palace, and declared he would fight,
accordingly firing commenced at appointed time and
continued for about an hour. The guns on shore were
speedily silenced and Palace destroyed. Fire was
opened on our ships by Sultan’s Corvette, which was
sunk. Khalid took refuge with German Consul, who
awaits instructions from his Government as to
surrendering him. Hamoud has been publicly pro-
claimed Sultan. Only casualties our side, one British
seaman badly wounded.^

Mr. Schomberg McDonnell to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Confidential.

Foebign Obficb, 27th Aug. 1896. — I understand
that the Queen will ascertain whether the Emperor
would like Lord Salisbury to be at Balmoral. If so,
he will go ; if not, he will remain at Walmer. S. McD.

[Telegram.] Foreign Office to Queen Victoria.

Foeeign Office, 29th Aug. 1896. — Sultan of
Zanzibar requests Cave® to express his thanks for
what has been done, and to submit to the Queen his
loyal allegiance and unalterable devotion to her
Majesty’s person, and his earnest desire to be guided
in all things by her Majesty’s Government.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.
[Cypher Telegram.]

31st Aug. 1896. — Your letter of yesterday. Ger-
man Government claims that their Consulate at
Zanzibar is German territory.

We cannot admit this claim, and so we cannot
agree to condition as to surrender of prisoner. But
if Germany likes to keep him in the Consulate, it will
not hurt us.

1 ZanzibarhadbeenaBritishProtectoratesincel890. Onthedeath
of the Sultaji in August 1896, a cousin, Khalid, seized the Palace and
pioclaimed himself Sultan, though the successor recognised by us was
a brother, Hamoud.

^ Consul at Zanzibar ; afterwards Sir Basil Cave.

72 DEATH OF PRINCE LOBANOFF [chap, xii

The Emperor of Russia to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.'\

Kieff Palais, 31si Aug. 1896. — Thank you for
kind sympathy upon this sad event, ^ it is a very
cruel loss I have sustained. Alicky all right. Wish
you a good journey. Nicky.

The Prince of Wales to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.']

1st Sept. 1896. — Sudden death of Russian Minister
Foreign Affairs will cause great changes in Russian
politics. Hope you will try your best to induce
Emperor to appoint Russian Ambassador in London
as his successor, if only for a short time ; it is absolutely
necessary for maintenance of better relations between
England and Russia.

Queen Victoria to the Prince of Wales.

[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 2nd Sept. 1896. — Lord Salis-
bury says I could not interfere or suggest any appoint-
ment of his new Minister. . . .

We are trying to carry out your suggestions * as
much as possible.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

2nd Sept. 1896, — Humble duty. Your Majesty’s
answer appears to me entirely judicious. Any inter-
ference would probably become known, and would be
resented by Russian statesmen.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Walmeb Castle, 2nd September 1896.

Dear Sir Arthur, — ^The designs of the French
upon the Upper Nile have been a subject of anxiety
to me for some time ; and we have shrewd suspicions

1 The death of Prince Lobanoff, the Russian Foreign Minister, on
30th August, while travelling with the Emperor.

® The Prince of Wales had written from Homburg on 29th August
a long letter suggesting arrangements for doing honour to the Emperor
and Empress of Russia on their first visit after their accession.

1896] QUEEN’S HINDUSTANI LESSONS 73

that the King of the Belgians will give them a helping
hand. But until we get the railway to Uganda, we
can do nothing to oppose them. The distance to be
traversed by troops marching from the coast would be
about ninety days. The cost of carriage per ton is
£112. It is evident we cannot, till the railway is
made, compete with the water carriage of the Congo
and the Ubanghi. The delay of the late Government,
which I imagine was caused by Sir William Harcourt,
leaves us in a position of no little anxiety. But for
the next two years there is no remedy. We must
trust to our luck. Yours very truly, Salisbury,

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 8th Sept. 1896.-— After luncheon did a
lesson in Hindustani with Abdul, who has just returned
from India. It did not go very well, as I had forgotten
a good deal, and not practised at all during his six
months’ absence.

Queen Victoria to the Prince of Wales,

[Cypher Telegram.^

Balmoral Castle, 10th Sept. 1896. — The more I
think over the question the stronger is my conviction
that in order to do as much honour as possible to
Emperor on his landing for the first time in this
country as such, you should receive him on my
behalf, Trust that you will be able to do this, as I
feel sure it wiU have a good effect in Russia,

The arrival at Leith being in State, and your having
met Nicky’s grandfather at Dover on the occasion of his
visit in ’74, think you could not well do otherwise now.
You could stay at Lord Rosebery’s for the Sunday.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 11^^ Sept. 1896. — ^After luncheon saw
Mr. Balfour, We talked over many important topics :
Crete, which, thanks to Lord Salisbury’s firmness and
the concerted (at last !) action of the Powers, is likely
to be settled ; Turkey, its horrors, and the impossi-
bility of knowing what to do ; the Soudan, and one’s

74 TSAR’S SAFETY IN SCOTLAND [chap, xii

feeling anxious for the news of the capture of Dongola,
as one knows there must be a fight ; the Education
Bill, which was not a satisfactory one, and that a
better one, much smaller, would have to be introduced
next year.

I am much struck, as is everyone, by Mr. Balfour’s
extreme fairness, impartiality, and large-mindedness.
He sees all sides of a question, is wonderfully generous
in his feelings towards others, and very gentle and
sweet-tempered.

15th Sept. — ^Much grieved to hear of the death of
dear old Mrs. Thurstone, for twenty years the faithful
and devoted nurse of our dear children. She had been
a great suflerer from gout these last two years, and
died rather suddenly early this morning. She came
to us when Affle was just a year old, and was most
excellent and devoted. Beatrice loved her dearly, and
always went to see her at Kensington Palace, when
she was in London. She was within two months of
completing her eighty-sixth year. Again a link with
the past broken !

Queen Victoria to Sir Matthew Ridley.
[Cypher Telegram.']

15th Sept. 1896. — The announcements in the press
as to supposed attempts against the Tsar naturally
cause increased anxiety, and the Queen relies upon you
for taking every possible precaution for their safety.^

Mr. Schomberg McDonnell to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Foreign Ofeice, 15th September 1896.

My deae, Bigge, — Many thanks for yours of the
13th. As you may imagine, I was delighted to hear

1 In reply Sir Arthur Bigge received from the Home Ofifiee the most
satisfactory assurances. Sir Matthew Ridley wrote : “ None of our
information points in the direction of an attempt on the Tsar or
Balmoral. Quite the contrary. This, however, has in no degree affected
our action in taking every possible precaution for his safety. And
you may assure the Queen that we are doing everything we can think
of to meet the occasion.” Sir Edward Bradford, Commissioner of
Metropolitan Police, writing on the 22nd, said : “ The Emperor is safer
in England than anywhere else in the world, and of this you can assure
the Queen and all concerned.”

75

1896 ] MR. CHAMBERLAIN ON AMERICA

that it was finally decided Lord Salisbury should go
to Balmoral, because I think it would have been dis-
astrous had he not seen the Emperor during his visit
here ; after all, the Journey is not bad ; and I will sec
that it is made as comfortable as possible so far as the
railway is concerned.

Private . — I am sure you will forgive my mention-
ing it ; but it is most necessary that Lord Salisbury’s
room should be very warm : a minimum temperature
of 60° is the chmate to which he is habituated, and a
cold room is really dangerous to him. I am ashamed
to bother you about so trifling a matter ; but it is
not so trifling as it may seem. . . .

Yours very truly, Schomberg K. McDonnell.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Massachusetts, 10th Sept. 1896, — Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to inform your Majesty that he arrived in America
after a pleasant voyage on September 2nd.

Mr. Chamberlain had a long interview with
Secretary Olney on the 8th inst. in reference to the
boundary in dispute, between Venezuela and your
Majesty’s colony of British Guiana, and hopes that
good may result, although no definite settlement has
yet been arrived at.

Unfortunately, although the great majority of
educated Americans are friendly to Great Britain and
desirous of peace, a feeling of hostility has been
sedulously encouraged among the masses of the
people ; and no newspaper, and hardly any politician,
ever has a good word for Enghsh policy or action.
The motives of the British Government are invariably
misrepresented and denounced, and appeals are con-
stantly made to popular passion and prejudice. As
a consequence the people at large are very ignorant of
our institutions and character, and the political
agitators use this ignorance for their own pur-
poses.

At the present time the attention of the country is

76 MR. McKinley and MR, BRYAN [chap, xn

absorbed in the preparations for the Presidential
election which takes place in November. The best
opinion is that Mr. McKinley, the Republican candi-
date, will win. He is a bigoted Protectionist, and is
said to be surrounded by advisers who are unfriendly
to England.

The Democratic Party is divided, and has two
candidates. The majority has selected Mr, Bryan, a
man previously unknown, who is a Socialist and an
advocate of the free coinage of silver and the payment
of debts in a depreciated currency. The more re-
sponsible Democrats have broken with their Party,
and have put up another man to represent them on
what is called the “ honest money ” programme. He
has, however, no chance of success himself, and is only
nominated in order to make a division in favour of
Mr. McKinley.

The real contest is between the latter and Mr.
Bryan, If Mr. Bryan is elected there will be a most
serious financial crisis, as all confidence will be
destroyed. On the other hand, if he is unsuccessful,
there will be great discontent among the Western
farmers, who have suffered from low prices, and
who believe that Mr. Bryan’s nostrums will help
them.

The political situation is therefore very unsatis-
factory ; and it is not at all creditable to a nation
which boasts of its intelligence and public spirit. I
am convinced that at the present time the people of
the United Kingdom are more prosperous and more
secure than the people of the United States.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

16th Sept. 1896. — Humbly submitted. The
Government of Victoria ask the Colonial Office
whether the Parliaments of the several Colonies may
send a congratulatory address to your Majesty on
23rd September. It is on that day that your Maj esty’s
reign will have lasted longer than that of any other
British Sovereign.

77

1896] BISHOP DAVIDSON ON QUEEN’S REIGN

Note hy Queen Victoria :

An Address perhaps could not be declined. But
they should be told I consider myself 20th or 21st
June [1897] as the day.

Bishop Bamdson^ to Queen Victoria.

Muiehouse, Davidson’s Mains, 16th September 1896.

Madam, — I know how much your Majesty has at
present to think about ; and yet, at the risk of being
intrusive, I must ask your Majesty to let me add a
few lines of dutiful and loyal affection and thankful-
ness to the stream which will this week flow in upon
Balmoral in grateful recognition of a reign now the
longest as well as the most beneflcent in English
annals. That the blessing of our Heavenly Father
may continue to rest in rich abundance upon your
Majesty, amid the heavy trials and anxieties which
the years have brought, is the unfailing prayer of all
who recognise — and who does not ? — what this reign
has meant for the peoples of the British Empire.

There is a rich significance in the fact that at the
hour, when all previous records of English history are
eclipsed by the length of your Majesty’s gracious rule,
your Majesty should also wield a personal and domestic
influence over the thrones of Europe absolutely with-
out precedent in the history of Christendom. For
this, too, are thanks given to God by all who realise
what that influence is, and how it tends to peace and
goodwill.

It can be no small matter to the world’s life that
the occupants of the Imperial thrones of Germany and
of Russia should at such a juncture bear the relation
they do to your Majesty ; and during the present
fearful stirring of men’s minds in view of Eastern
violence and wrong, nothing surely is more touching
than the simple belief which those unlearned in
political complications hold, that, somehow or other,
“ the Queen will set things right when she sees the
Tsar.” It betokens a loyal and genuine trust, born of

‘ Bishop of Winchester ; afterwards Archbishop of Canterbury,

78 THE TSAR AT BALMORAL [chap, xn

long experience ; and, however mistaken the notion
of simple hearts that matters can thus readily be set
straight, the fact that people say and think it is a
striking evidence of what your Majesty is to tens of
thousands of English men, women, and children, who
know nothing of public life, but know and trust and
reverence their Queen and believe in her influence for
all that is good.

Your Majesty will know that I mention this merely
as an example, one among many which have struck
me, of the feeling of loyalty and trust which found
expression in the Jubilee of 1887 and finds new
occasion for it now. With honest apology for the
intrusion of this letter, and with all loyal devotion, I
have the honour to be, your Majesty’s humble servant,
Randall Winton.

Extracts from the Queen’s J ournal.

Balmoral, 20th Sept. 1896. — We received the
astonishing and satisfactory news that Dongola was
captured, in the following cypher : “ Sirdar telegraphs
that report just received from the west bank, that
gunboats have captured Dongola, its treasury, and
everything in it.” This is most satisfactory, and it is
curious that it should take place on the anniversary
of the battle of the Alma.

22nd Sept . — Heard of Nicky and -Ahcky’s safe
disembarkation, and of their departure from Leith.

. . . Went down soon after half-past seven into the
visitors’ rooms, and waited there till we heard the
church beUs ringing and the pipes playing.

Punctually at eight, the procession reached the
door. The escort of Scots Greys came first, then the
pipers and torchbearers, and finally the carriage con-
taining Nicky, Alicky, Bertie, and Arthur. I was
standing at the door. Nicky got out first, whom I
embraced, and then darling Alicky, all in white,
looking so well, whom I likewise embraced most
tenderly. She went round and shook hands with
everybody who was standing in the hall. A very

1896] LONGEST REIGN ACHIEVED 79

smart Cossack had previously arrived, and was at the
door. We all weirt into the Drawing-room, and
Nicky’s suite came in, Count Woronzoff Dashkoff,
Prince Galitzine, Count Benckendorff. The dear baby
was then brought in, a most beautiful child, and so big ;
after which Nicky and Alicky went to their rooms,
and I quickly dressed for dinner, to which we sat
down a little before nine. It was a family one :
Nicky, Alicky, Bertie, Arthur and Louis chen,
Beatrice, Georgie and May, George Cambridge, Thora ^
and Franzjos, all the Princes being in uniform.
Georgie, May and George C. came over from Glen
Muicl?;, where they are staying. It seems quite like
a dream having dear Alicky and Nicky here. If only
dear Liko were still with us, who would have been
so dehghted and so active 1

Heard this evening that the Sirdar had crossed to
the other side, where the dervishes were expected to
make a stand, and the fighting would probably take
place to-day or to-morrow.

23rd Sept. — To-day ^ is the day on which I have
reigned longer, by a day, than any English sovereign,
and the people wished to make all sorts of demonstra-
tions, which I asked them not to do until I had com-
pleted the sixty years next June. But notwithstand-
ing that this was made public in the papers, people of
all kinds and ranks, from every part of the kingdom,
sent congratulatory telegrams, and they kept coming

1 Princess Victoria of Sclileswig-Holstein.

^ The previous longest reign had been that of George III, who
acceded on 25th October, 1760, and died on 29th January, 1820. Queen
Victoria acceded on 20th June, 1837 ; and it might therefore be thought
that it was not until Friday, 26th September, 1896, that her Majesty had
exceeded her grandfather’s record. The Times of Wednesday, 23rd
September, 1896, thus explained the facts : “ The actual regnant period
of George III contained only thirteen additional days contributed by
leap years — ^the 29th of February not occurring in 1800, owing to the
rule for the correction of the calendar, and the King’s death taking place
on 29th January, 1820. But the Queen’s reign is to be credited with
fifteen such additional days since her accession to the throne. On this
day, therefore — ^not, as the almanac would otherwise seem to show, on
Friday next — ^it may be said with strict accuracy that she has reigned
longer than any of her predecessors.”

80 DONGOLA REOCCUPIED [ctiap. xit

in all day. They were all most loyally expressed
and some very prettily.

After dinner I had some little talk with M. de
Staal 1 about public affairs, and he said it would be a
very good thing if I spoke to Nicky on all the im-
portant points.

[Telegram.] The Sirdar to Private Secretary, Balmoral,

I^EMA, 23rd Sept. 1896. — On this most auspicious
anniversary of her Majesty’s glorious reign, with
humble duty and the homage of the troops I beg to
report I have just reoccupied Dongola. The der-
vishes are in full retreat. Many important Emirs
have surrendered ; several guns, quantities of am-
munition, and loot of all sorts have been captured ;
also many prisoners. Gunboats are pursuing to
Debbeh. No British casualties. Colville from gun-
boat has hoisted flag over old ruined Mudina,

Archbishop Benson to Queen Victoria.

Palmeestown, CO. Kildaee, 23rd September 1896.

Madam, — I must by one word on this great day
assure your Majesty how with all your people I thank
God with my whole heart for your Majesty’s health
preserved to us through such a beloved reign of ever-
increasing honour and power.

“ Praised be God ” is the voice of every heart, and
may He still long preserve your Majesty ! Your
Majesty’s most devoted and dutiful servant, Edw.
Cantuae.

Sir William Harcourt to Queen Victoria.

Malwood, 23rd Sept. 1896. — Sir William Har-
court presents his humble duty to the Queen. Your
Majesty’s constant Idndness and gracious goodness
to him and to his family makes him hope that he may
without presumption offer his heartfelt congratula-
tions on an occasion which brings home to all your
subjects the ever-present memory of your Majesty’s
reign, celebrated above all others by the period of

^ Russian Ambassador in England.

1896] NO POSSIBLE RETIREMENT 81

time during which it has brought to this nation the
longest and the greatest epoch of peace, prosperity,
and happiness which its annals record.

The many millions who regard your Majesty’s
person with loyal and devoted affection rejoice that
it has been given to you to see a greater Empire bound
to your Tlnone by a deeper sense of the blessings
which you will have brought to them.

And those who have had the honour personally
to serve your Majesty, have had the privilege of know-
ing the happiness which has come to the Queen in
the sight of the family by which she is surrounded
in her home, who also fill the great stations of the
world with her affectionate descendants.

Sir William can appreciate the delight with which
the Queen has received the Empress of Russia and
her child, as there dwells in his memory the fascinating
picture of the beautiful and charming Princess whom
he had the honour of seeing some years ago at
Balmoral.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.']

2Mh Sept. 1896 . — The Emperor is extremely well-
disposed, and is anxious to put a stop to the Sultan’s
iniquities. He is very desirous of talking to you;
M. de Staal is equally so. He is remaining in the
neighbourhood.

What is to be done about Dongola ? Surely not
to retire as we did before, leaving the dervishes to
return whenever they liked ? Can it be held without
danger of being attacked? Some settlement must
be come to. Half-measures will be fatal, and it will
be deplorable to have [to] begin it all over again.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

24ith Sept. 1896 . — Humble duty. Respectfully
thank your Majesty for two telegrams and con-
gratulate you on the brilliant event in Egypt. The

82 QUEEN TALKS TO TSAR [chap, xii

loyal outburst yesterday must have been most grati-
fying to your Majesty. It would have been tenfold
greater, but for the wish you had expressed on the
subject. No retirement from Dongola is possible.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 2Uh Sept. 1896. — A large luncheon, to
which, besides ourselves in the house, Georgie and
May, Louise and Macduff ^ came. At a little after four
dear Alix arrived with Victoria, having landed to-day
at Aberdeen, after having had a frightful passage
from Copenhagen. She only remained a short time
with me. Drove with Beatrice and Louischen, and
went as far as the old Castle of Braemar, where we
turned and came back to the Dantzig for tea. Nicky,
Alicky, Bertie, Arthur, Thora, and Franzjos joined
us there.

Nicky and Alicky drove back with me, and I said
a few words to him about Turkey and Armenia,
saying his own Ambassador at Constantinople had
told Sir P. Currie that he hoped some agreement would
be come to with England whilst Nicky was here, as
affairs were very critical and some catastrophe was
dreaded. Nicky said he quite saw this, and would
see what he could do, though it was most difficult.
I remarked that, if England and Russia went together,
there must be peace, and something ought to be done
to bring this about.

[Telegram,] The Sirdar to Private Secretary, Balmoral.

Kerma, 26th Sept. 1896, — ^Her Majesty’s gracious
message has been communicated to the troops. With
my humble duty I beg you will convey the sincere
thanks of all here.

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

20th September 1896 .

Madam, — Upon my return from a short holiday
abroad, I find but one thought in the minds of your
Majesty’s people, and I venture to add my expression

1 Dii'^p PTiri Diiplipr ’ nf Eifp

1896] CONGRATULATIONS ON REIGN 88

of it to the thousands your Majesty has already
received.

All your subjects rejoice at the length of reign
that has been vouchsafed to your Majesty, and pray
earnestly that it may continue for many, many years
to come. But stronger even than the personal homage
which this wish embodies, there is present in the heart
of each and all of your loyal subjects a fervent grati-
tude to God for having vouchsafed to us for sixty years
so good, so wise, so great a ruler. It is good for all
of us to pause at this moment and recall the many
blessings that your Majesty’s long reign has brought
us as a nation. Consider it as we may, each from his
own standpoint, we all find wisdom, purity of life,
and devotion to duty combined at all its varied epochs
to set us a bright example. But indeed, your Majesty’s
broad and national views, upon all matters of common
interest, will in history surround your illustrious name
with more glory than any length of reign can ever do.

May I venture to add, that any reference to your
Majesty’s life would be incomplete and, I am sure,
valueless in your eyes, that did not include in it
the name of his Royal Highness the Prince Consort ?
All know how much he was your guide and support,
and how great was the shadow thrown by his loss
upon your Majesty’s life. His name is inalienably
woven with that of your Majesty in the history of
Great Britain.

It is no vain flattery to say that the first Empress
of India will be renowned as the best of Queens and
the greatest Sovereign who has ever ruled over this
Realm. I am, with all honour and respect and
loving loyalty, your Majesty’s most faithful servant
and soldier, Wolseley.

Catherine Smith to Queen Victoria,

4!t Castle Street, Dumfries, 2(ith September 1896.

Dear Queen, — I write to say how glad I am you
have reigned so long, and I hope you may still live
for many years to come. I do not think you have

TTT 7

84 PRINCE “DAVID” OF YORK [chap, xii

ever been in Dumfries, the place I am writing from.
This is my home, and I am nine years old. I have been
an invalid for nearly three years, and for the last
twelve months have not been able to sit up, so please
excuse the writing. I was very much interested in
the account of your dolls, as I have quite a number
of my own. With much love and all good wishes,
believe me, dear Queen, your affectionate friend,
Catheeine M. Smith.

^nd October.

Deae Queen, — Thank you very very much for
the beautiful photograph of yourself you so kindly
sent me, it made me so happy. With love, believe me,
dear Queen, your affectionate friend, Catheeine M.
Smith.

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoeal, Sept. 1896. — I saw Lord Salis-
bury who had arrived early this morning. I told him
how well disposed Nicky was, and how anxious to
speak to him. What Lord Salisbury is most anxious
to avoid is anything which could appear as an attack
on the Mohammedans, or encouragement of a propa-
ganda against Moslems, which would be most dan-
gerous on account of the enormous number of our
Mohammedan subjects. He fears that the only thing
which could do any good would be the removal of
the Sultan, but a Mohammedan would have to be
placed at Constantinople.

2Sth Sept . — ^Dear little David ^ with the baby
came in at the end of luncheon to say good-bye.
David is a most attractive little boy, and so forward
and clever. He always tries at luncheon time to pull
me up out of my chair, saying, “ Get up, Gangan,”
and then to one of the Indian servants, “ Man pull
it,” which makes us laugh very much.

Saw Lord Salisbury, who had had a long conversa-
tion of an hour and a half with Nicky yesterday, and
was much struck by his great candour and desire to

' The present Prince of WaleL

1896] LORD SALISBURY AND THE TSAR 85

be on the best terms with us. He had disclaimed in
the strongest manner any unfriendly intentions against
India.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Balmokal Castlk, 2Qth Sept. 1896. — Lord Salis-
bury with his humble duty respectfully thanks your
Majesty for sending him the enclosed telegrams, which
he returns.

He did not receive them until after he had seen
the Emperor of Russia. The news, if it be authentic,
is very terrible. But the Emperor seemed to be
distinctly averse, at this stage, to any effort to de-
throne the Sultan. He was deeply impressed with
the dangers of “ interfering in other people’s concerns,”
and the fear that if we set up a Sultan, however
legitimately selected, the Moslems would treat him
as a creature of the Christians, and would refuse to
obey him. Probably he had consulted with Monsiepr
de Staal, who is known to hold those opinions. He
is not, however, averse to the plan of going more
cautiously to work, and remitting the question as to
the changes which are necessary to the Ambassadors,
agreeing to an undertaking that, if the Powers agree
to any recommendation which the Sultan refuses,
his refusal should be overruled by force.

The question of going forward to Khartoum is
purely a question of money. There is no Egyptian
money available. If it is done, it must be done with
English money. Lord Salisbury hopes to have the
opinion of his colleagues in the other House of Parlia-
ment, but his impression is that the House of Commons
would not be disposed to authorise the expenditure.

Memorandum by Queen Victoria.

Balmoral, 2nd Oct. 1896. — ^I had a very interest-
ing conversation with Nicky, who came to my room
before dinner. After speaking to him about the
yacht and the advantages or disadvantages of screws,
I referred to the idea which Lord Salisburv had enter-

86 THE TSAR’S' VIEWS [chap, xii

tained of the possibility of deposing the Sultan. I
said I understood that Nicky was against this, to
which he assented, and added he thought it would be a
great risk, and naight lead to dangerous complications.
But, I remarked, I believed he did not object to what
is stated in a letter left by Lord Salisbury before he
went, in which he says the following : “ The Emperor
is not averse to the plan of going more cautiously to
work, and remitting the question, as to the changes
which are necessary, to the Ambassadors, agreeing to
an undertaking that if the Powers agree to any
recommendation which the Sultan refuses, his refusal
should be overruled by force.” Nicky read the letter
and said, certainly he agreed to it. I observed I
feared the French would not agree, but he answered,
“ They will follow us.”

I then said to him, might I ask what was the
cause of this apparent great friendship between
Russia and France ; did it arise from the Triple
Alliance ? He replied, “ Yes,” and that he would tell
me how it came. After the Turkish war, the Germans
and Austrians concluded an alliance directed against
Russia, which was later on joined by Italy. The
Russians asked to join this and were refused. Upon
this they felt they might be attacked, and, France also
being isolated, they came to an agreement and a
treaty, which bound them to assist each other when
either was attacked, but not to assist one another
if they attacked another country. This had been
particularly done against the French doing so. But
it was a pm’ely military agreement, which extended to
nothing else whatever.

Nicky did not seem at all to relish the French, and
regretted the visit to Paris, which was unavoidable.
He meant to begin the sight-seeing by visiting Notre
Dame, and would also receive the Archbishop of Paris
in private audience. He is so terribly shocked at the
anti-religious spirit shown by the French Govern-
ment. I then said I understood that what he wished
and had mentioned to Lord Salisbury was, the power

1896] AN EARLY “MOVING PICTURE” 87

of going into the Straits, viz. the Dardanelles, to which
he replied, “ Yes, in due time ” ; for I observed Austria
and France would dislike this, and it would affect them
more than it would us, though we had also our rights
which we must maintain. He quite agreed in this,
but said it was the only cause of friction between
England and Russia. There was no danger or cause
for disagreement about India, for that was entirely
settled. He did not say anything about Egypt, but
seemed to have no objection on that ground. He
seemed to regret William’s injudicious policy and
Germany’s inimicality towards us. I said it was so
important that Russia and England should go well
together, as they were the most powerful Empires, for
then the world must be at peace. He was most kind
and affectionate and very frank and open.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

2nd Oct. 1896. — ^Humble duty. The action of
German Government ^ is very strange. The doctrine
they lay down is that a German man-of-war has un-
restricted right to communicate with German Con-
sulate in foreign country if it happens to be a building
at the seaside. It is utterly untenable, and seems to
indicate a desire to quarrel.

I have remonstrated strongly, but I instructed
our Consul some time ago not to carry resistance to
the point of violence, and I have renewed that
instruction. . . .

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 3rd Oct, 1896. — At twelve went down
to below the terrace, near the ballroom, and we were
all photographed by Downey by the new cinemato-
graph process, which makes moving pictures by wind-
ing off a reel of films. We were walking up and down,

1 At Zanzilbar. See above, pp. 69-71. The difficulty was amicably
arranged.

88 THE TSAR’S DEPARTURE [chap, xii

and the children jumping about. Then took a turn
in the pony chair, and not far from the garden
cottage Nicky and Alicky planted a tree. In the
afternoon drove out with them, alas ! for the last
time, and went to Invercauld and back by the Balloch
Bhui. It was rather showery and dark. Took tea
with them on coming home. We dined en famille,
including Daisy and Patsy, at a quarter to nine.

At ten dear Nicky and Alicky left, to my great
regret, as I am so fond of them both. Arthur and
Louischen went with them, and are going abroad.
The girls remain here. Went to the door to see our
dear visitors leave. There were again the Highlanders
bearing torches, but no pipes.

Queen Victoria to the Emperor of Russia.

\Copy.~\ Baimoeal Castle, 5tli October 1896.

Dearest Nicky, — ^You will be surprised to get a
letter from me already, but I could not manage to say
something to you the day you left. It is, that I am
sure you will kindly use your influence and let the
French understand that you do not intend to support
them in their constant inimicality towards England,
which is a cause of much annoyance and difficulty to
us, in Egypt amongst other subjects.

I would not have written this had you not told
me that the agreement, or alliance, or whatever it is
called, was only of a military nature. I am (and Lord
Salisbury the same) so anxious that we, Russia and
England, should understand each other, and be on the
most friendly terms, that I am sure you excuse my
troubling you so soon. ... V. R. I.

The Emperor and Empress of Russia to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Cherbourg, 5th Oct. 1896. — ^Arrived after bad
rough passage. Fleet escorted us beautifully. So
thankful for that honour, and in general for your
kindness. Best love, from Alix, Nicky.

1896]

ViSii' OF TSAK TO PARIS

89

The Marquis of Dujferin to Queen Victoria.

Bkitish Embassy, Paris, 11th Oct. 1896. — . . .
The visit was certainly a great success.^ The attitude
of the French people, though cordial and perfectly
friendly, was dignified and correct, and free from any
of the extravagances which characterised their attitude
in welcoming Admiral Avellan.

There have been scarcely any accidents, which is
certainly wonderful, considering the millions of people
that crowded into the streets, and is very creditable
to the precautions taken by the authorities.

The bearing of the Tsar throughout, though some-
what reserved, was graceful and dignified, while noth-
ing could have exceeded the charm of manner of your
Majesty’s granddaughter. She has won everyone’s
sympathy by her sweet simplicity and her gentle
demeanour. The hearts of both the young couple
will have been deeply touched by the evidence of so
much good feeling ; and the retrospect, in spite of
the hard work involved, will always be a delightful
souvenir in their lives.

As this is the last letter with which Lord Dufferin
will have to trouble your Majesty in an official capa-
city, he hopes that your Majesty will not think him
presuming if he ventures to take this final opportunity
of expressing to your Majesty in as earnest terms as
he can command the deep and grateful sense he has
never ceased to entertain of your Majesty’s unfailing
goodness and kindness. It is now nearly fifty years
since he had the honour of becoming one of your
Majesty’s servants, and first entering upon his func-
tions on the occasion of your Majesty’s visit to Dublin.
Some of the happiest moments of his life have been
passed under your Majesty’s roof ; and he has been
conscious that, however imperfect may have been his
efforts to do his duty towards your Majesty and your
Empire, your Majesty has been pleased to regard them
with unfailing indulgence, and has rewarded him far

' Lord Duffexin had sent the Queen daily accounts of the Imperial
v' 'it to Boris.

90 DEATH OF ARCHBISHOP BENSON [ctiap. xii

beyond his merits in the numerous honours which he
has received at your Majesty’s hands. He is now
emboldened to conclude this letter by a fervent prayer
that your Majesty may long live in health and
happiness to continue the glorious era during which
your Majesty has been reigning.^

[Telegram,] The Empress of Russia to Queen Victoria.

Neues Palais, Darmstadt, IQth Oct. 1896. —
Tender thanks telegram. Visit charming Friedrichs*
hof, weather bad, Wihy lunched here. Nicky will
write. Love, Alix.

The Marquis of Salishury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, (?) Oct. 1896, — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully thanks your
Majesty for the Memorandum on Indian peerages
which your Majesty has sent him to read. It is a
grave and difficult question. Lord Salisbury quite
agrees with Colonel Clarke that the matter cannot be
left to the decision of the permanent officials connected
with the India Office, who would certainly reject it.
It might be well, when people have returned to town,
to ask Lord Dufferin, Lord Lansdowne, Lord North-
brook, and perhaps Lord Ripon, Sir H. Fowler, and
Lord Kimberley to consult upon the matter, or per-
haps it would be better in the first instance to write
to them individually. Of course the Cabinet would
have to be consulted, which is the reason that in the
above list Lord Salisbury has not mentioned Lord G.
Hamilton and the Duke of Devonshire. . , .

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, llih Oct. 1896. — A telegram came
addressed to Sir A. Bigge, who had gone home, so I
opened it. It was from Mr. Gladstone, saying Mrs,
Benson desired him to inform me that the Archbishop
[of Canterbury] had died suddenly this morning at
Hawarden. We are all most dreadfully shocked, for

* As it happened, this was not Lord Dufferin’s last official letter to
the Queen, as he remained at his post in Paris into the next year.

1896] QUEEN’S SYMPATHY 91

he was such a dear, kind, excellent man, and so charm-
ing. I saw so much of him when we were at Florence,
and I remember the very pleasant evenings at the
Villa Fabbricotti, when he and Mrs. Benson dined
with me, and he was so genial and full of interesting
conversation.

[Telegram^ Queen Victoria to Mr. Gladstone.

Balmoral, \lth Oct. 1896. — Your telegram has
quite stunned me, and I cannot sufficiently express my
sorrow at this terrible loss. I was exeeedingly fond
of the dear Archbishop, and had the greatest regard
for him. Fear this sad event happening in your house
must be a great shock to you and Mrs. Gladstone.
V. R. I.

Queen Victoria to the Prince of Wales.
{Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 12th Oct. 1896. — Think you
should attend dear Archbishop’s funeral. If you can’t,
then Georgie should. His rank and position are so
high that one or two, one at least, of the Royal family
should attend, either you and Georgie, or one or
other of you.

Mrs, Benson to Queen Victoria.

Hawabden Castle, I2th October 1896.

MlADAm, — ^Your Majesty’s kind and gracious and
most sympathetic words ernbolden me to write fully
and unreservedly on these last terrible and yet
beautiful hours. My dear husband has been so
wonderfully well these last weeks since we have been
in Ireland. There was a great deal to do through the
kindness and warm-heartedness of so many, but it
did not seem to do him any harm. He spoke on
Friday at a large meeting at Belfast, and even a few
words in the evening on the platform, as we were
stepping into the boat, to the clergy who came to
see him off. We had a calm passage, and slept at
Carlisle, and came on here on Saturday evening ; he

92 MRS. BENSON’S NARRATIVE [chap, xii

had a long talk with Mr. Gladstone which interested
him deeply, and was perfectly well at night.

We had the Communion together in Hawarden
Church at eight o’clock, and all was most beautiful.
I drove up with Mrs. Gladstone to morning service,
while he walked quietly up with Mrs. Drew and her
little girl. Mrs. Drew tells me he was very well and
bright. Coming into church he sat in Mr. Gladstone’s
place, as he was not able to go out that morning.
During the Confession, towards the end, I heard a
slight sound ; and looking up saw that his head had
fallen forward on to the book. I went round to him,
and people came and lifted him up. He was even
then unconscious. They carried him out of church
into the Rectory, which is close, and everything was
done that could be. There was a doctor in the.
congregation and a nurse, but he never recovered
consciousness, and passed away in a few minutes
without pain or struggle of any kind. We can give
God thanks that for him there was no suffering, but
only a glad passing from life to life.

Your Majesty’s touching words about your own
personal sorrow go to my heart. He was always,
and increasingly, not only passionately loyal, but
deeply personally devoted to your Majesty ; and
therefore your Majesty’s affectionate words, if I
may be allowed to call them so, are very precious
to me.

Two of my sons are already with me, and the
others are coming. Nothing could exceed the kind-
ness of the dear people here, and I am thankful to
think they have not, Mrs. Drew assures me, suffered
from the shock.

The wish has been strongly expressed that he
should he buried at Canterbury ; and, though nothing
is as yet fixed, I hope we shall lay him to rest there
on Thursday or Friday.

My children and I rest in the one thought that
God, who has called our beloved one home with this
overwhelming suddenness, is a God of Love, and that

1896] LETTER FROM MRS. GLADSTONE 93

His Will must be full of life and love ; and we know
He will be with us, and with all those who suffer with
us, in all strength and consolation. I am, Madam,
your Majesty’s obedient and devoted servant, Mary
Benson.

Extract from the Queen’’ s Journal.

Balmoral, 12th Oct. 1896. — There are most touch-
ing details in the papers about the dear Archbishop’s
death. What a beautiful thought that he almost
passed away in church, while at his prayers ! The
loss to the Church is very great.

Mrs. Gladstone to Queen Victoria.

Hawaeden Castle, Chester, IStk October 1896.

Dear Madam, — My husband begs me to write
after your Majesty’s tender thought of us, which we
felt came not so much from a loved Queen, but from
one who had suffered and did suffer with and for us
all. In the midst of the tragedy, there was a great
sense of fitness in his dying here, close to my husband ;
and dear Mrs. Benson is able to feel this, with many
other great and ennobling thoughts. And, agony as
it has been and is, we must not lose sight of this, that
God has dealt so lovingly with us. One of our last
talks, on Saturday evening, the dear Archbishop was
dwelling with tenderness and admiration on his last
interview with your Majesty. He walked up to
Church with Mary quite gently, well and happy, and
knelt down in my husband’s place near me. This is
a blessed memory for me, may it help us onward and
upward !

Mrs. Benson has just started for London, calm
and patient, full of faith and courage. It was indeed
a lesson to be with her.

What we feel so very especially is that your
Majesty, stunned with grief and the sense of personal
loss, should have thought of us. I remain. Madam,
your Majesty’s devoted humble servant, Catherine
Gt iosTONr' .

94 THE ARCHBISHOP’S SUCCESSOR [chap, xii

[Telegram.] The Duke of York to Queen Victoria.

St. James’s Palace, IQth Oct. 1896. — Just returned
from poor Archbishop’s funeral, which was most im-
pressive and beautiful service. I put your cross on
coffin myself. Dreadful weather, raining and blowing
all day. George.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, V7th Oct. 1896. — ^Had a very interesting
letter from the Bishop of Winchester, who had
accompanied the Archbishop’s remains from Hawar-
den to Canterbury. Unfortunately the day of the
funeral was very wet, but this did not prevent an
immense crowd of Bishops,. Clergy, public men and
representatives of all sorts of Societies and other
bodies from attending. This is the first Archbishop
buried in Canterbury Cathedral since Cardinal Pole.
The Bishop feels personally the loss very deeply, as
the Archbishop had been for years one of his closest
personal friends and counsellors. There is no doubt
that he is a real national loss, for he was so reliable
and competent, and had such a wise and sobering
influence.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

lUh Oct. 1896.— Lord Salisbury . . . respectfully
submits the following observations with respect to
the Archbishopric of Canterbury. Unquestionably
the greatest man on the English Bench is the Bishop
of London [Temple]. He began as a disciple of Dr.
Arnold, and is not believed to have modified his
views. But his great liberality of thought, his
energy, his piety, and his great intellect have won
for him the confidence of all parties in the Church.
There is only one objection ; and that is a serious
one : he is seventy-five years of age. But Lord
Salisbury is convinced that he will not accept the
post unless he feels satisfied that he can do the
work. It would be such a slm* upon him if he were
passed over ; and would be resented by many on

1896] LORD SALISBURY’S ADVICE 95

account of his great merit; that Lord Salisbury
would advise that the translation be offered to him.
It is very likely he will not accept it. If he refuses
it, the fact that it has been offered to him should be
allowed to transpire.

If he declines, the choice becomes difficult. There
are only two possible competitors, the Bishop of Win-
chester and the Bishop of Peterborough [Creighton] ;
but they run each other very close. The Bishop of
Winchester has more the manners of society and the
knowledge of men. . . . But his health is bad, and
very uncertain ; he is young for an Archbishopric
(only forty-eight), and he has done nothing to justify
in the eyes of the public his rapid advancement,
which is in consequence generally attributed to your
Majesty’s personal predilection for him. The Bishop
of Peterborough is a more intellectual man and a
much better public speaker and preacher ; and he
has a great reputation as a learned historian. He is
fifty-three, and he has strong health. But his manner
is not good ; and it will be felt that his experience in
Church office has not been sufficient to justify his
elevation over so many men who possess that experi-
ence more fully. On the whole, though with much
misgiving. Lord Salisbury thinks that the Bishop of
Winchester’s previous career, and his intimacy with
Archbishop Tait, give him a moral and social power
in the Church, which the Bishop of Peterborough
does not yet possess. He is disposed therefore to
advise that, after the Bishop of London, the offer be
made to Bishop Davidson.

[Copy.l Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Balmoral Castle, 16th Oct. 1896. — The Queen
received Lord Salisbury’s letter this morning, on the
very important subject of a successor to the excellent
and lamented Archbishop Benson, and she will reply
categorically to Lord Salisbury’s remarks.

1. The Mshop of London. , . . He is very clever,
very worthy, but ... his age is far too advanced

96 THE QUEEN’S PREFERENCE [chap, xu

to undertake such an arduous post ; and his eyesight
is most defective, he can hardly see anything below
him.

2. The Bishop of Peterborough. He is very able,
very agreeable, with a good presence, and is an
excellent preacher. But ... it would hardly do to
place him above all the other Bishops. . . .

3. The Bishop of Winchester. He is very able, a
very good preacher, with an immense knowledge of
all the members of the Church, very liberal-minded
and tolerant in religion, as the two preceding Bishops
also are. He has all the experience which his great
intimacy with Archbishops Tait and Benson gives
him. When the Queen was so anxious that he should
be appointed to the see of Winchester (when he was
appointed to the see of Rochester, the hard work of
which nearly killed him) the late Archbishop most
urgently desired that he should go then to Winchester,
for which see he thought him eminently fitted. The
Bishop of Winchester’s health has become very much
stronger since he left London, and in fact he says he
never was so well as now ; his age, if he be otherwise
fit, the Queen can really not think should militate
against his appointment to the high post of Arch-
bishop. For others to say that it is the Queen’s
partiahty which has obtained him his promotions is
extremely wrong and unjust. It is in fact quite the
reverse. The Queen most unwillingly consented to
his leaving Windsor, which Lord Salisbury himself
pressed so very much.

When Archbishop Tait died, Mr. Gladstone said
the choice lay between the then Bishop of Winchester,
Dr. Harold Browne, and the Bishop of Truro, Dr.
Benson. It was thought the former was too old and
in too bad health to undertake the office, but it was
offered to him almost on the understanding that he
would not accept it.^ Perhaps if Lord Salisbury thinks
it absolutely necessary to offer the Primacy to the
Bishop of London, it should be done in [some] such a
* See Second Series, vol. iii, pp. 371, 375-8, 881-2.

97

1896] MR. CHAMBERLAIN ON SOUTH AFRICA

way, . . . But she has no objection to its being
known that the offer was made. The Queen feels
rather strongly the imputation, of the Bishop of
Winchester owing his preferments to her partiality,
as she thinks all her Ministers must know that she
has never pressed the appointment of anyone, unless
she was quite sure they were fitted for it.

Mf. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 19th Oct. 1896. — ^Mr. Chamber-
lain . . . begs to thank your Majesty for your
gracious letter. He is glad to say that neither Mrs.
Chamberlain nor himself suffered any ill effects from
their recent voyage, or from the storm of the 8th
inst. in the Channel, wliich was the worst that he
has ever encountered.

Before leaving the United States, Mr. Chamber-
lain had another interview with Mr. Olney, and found
him in a much more friendly disposition than on the
first occasion. Several suggestions for a settlement of
the boundary dispute were discussed, and Mr. Chamber-
lain hopes that these informal negotiations may lead
to an agreement in regard to the question which will
be mutually satisfactory to the two countries.

Since his return Mr. Chamberlain has made care-
ful enquiries into the state of things at present
existing in Matabeleland, with special reference to
the proposals for diminishing the number of troops
in that territory. The last information received
points to the early and complete collapse of the
insurrection, but he is not inclined to rely absolutely
on these reports, as it is notoriously difficult to ascer-
tain with certainty the intentions of the natives. But,
even if the insurrection continues, it appears to be
impossible to conduct offensive operations during the
rainy season, and the troops must therefore go into
quarters.

Sir F. Carrington ^ has given a positive opinion that,
under these circumstances, it will be sufficient for
1 Who had larger experience of African warfare.

98 BISHOP DAVIDSON ON DR. TEMPLE [chap, xn

defensive purposes to retain a force of 800 men in
Matabeleland, and that there will be no risk to the
Imperial troops in consequence of this reduction of
force. He agrees with Lord Grey^ that it would be
difficult, if not impossible, to feed and supply a larger
force without trenching seriously on the stores
required for the civil population. He therefore
recommends an immediate reduction, and Mr.
Chamberlain is of opinion that this recommendation,
coming from the experienced military officer in
command on the spot, should be approved.

He proposes, however, to consult Lord Salisbury
and the Secretary-of-State for War before giving a
final reply, and he hopes that your Majesty will ap-
prove of this decision.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 21st Oct 1896. — Many thanks
for your letter. Think Lord Wolseley ought to be
consulted on these as on all military matters, as well
as Lord Salisbury and the Secretary for War. The
fighting still goes on.

[Telegram.] Bishop Davidson to Queen Victoria.

Addington Park, Croydon, 21st Oct. 1896.— I
am increasingly convinced that, in the opinion of those
best qualified to judge, the senior name first mentioned
in my long letter ^ posted to your Majesty on Sunday
is the one which would alone command real confidence
at this juncture and serve best interests of Church and
Nation. I can if desired write fully respecting natural
objections against advanced age, but shrink from

^ The 4th Earl, formerly Mr. Albert Grey, M.P., Administrator
of Rhodesia ; Governor- General of Canada, 1904-1911.

^ In that letter, dated 18th October, Dr. Davidson rvrote : “ Fore-
most beyond question both in power and in influence stands the Bishop
of London. His largeness of sympathy and truly liberal views out-
weigh, for those who know him, all faults of manner ; and, if it be
possible to secure him for the post for a time, it would in my opinion
be well for the Church. But he is seventy-live years old, and his eye-
sight is failing.”

1896] DECISION ABOUT ARCHBISHOPRIC 99

troubling your Majesty needlessly. Bishop op
Winchester.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram^

21st Oct. 1896 . — Since writing yesterday, am
anxious to express that, if it is thought most advisable
after all to offer the Primaey to the Bishop of London,
the Queen will not object, though she retains her
personal opinion as to his fitness.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

22nd Oct. 1896 . — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully thanks your Majesty for your most
gracious telegram with respect to the Archbishopric.

Lord Salisbury has a great admiration for the
intellect and character of the Bishop of Winchester ;
but he has derived it, as yom' Majesty probably has,
from conversations with him. To the public generally,
who have not this opportunity for knowing his merits,
his rapid advancement is a cause of some perplexity.
He was not distinguished at the University (he only
took a third class) ; he has had no important pastoral
cure ; and he has not pubhshed any work of note
except the biography of his father-in-law ; his speak-
ing and preaching, though good, are not of unusual
merit ; he is the youngest of all the Bishops on the
English Bench. If he were now made at once Arch-
bishop of Canterbury, he will be thought to have
gained the post entirely by favour ; and such a
suspicion, though very unjust, will detract most
seriously from his authority and usefulness. If the
Bishop of London should decline, perhaps there is no
other alternative. But it would in Lord Salisbury’s
judgment be far better that the Bishop of London
should hold the office for a few years. At the expira-
tion of that time. Bishop Davidson, having served his
time in the see of Winchester, will be of a suitable
age, and will be able to do great service to the Church.

Lord Salisbury respectfully returns the letter of

ITI — 8

100 DR, TEMPLE ACCEPTS [otap. xii

the Bishop of Ripon. He encloses one from the
Archbishop of York, urging the appointment of the
Bishop of Peterborough; and he has had a message
from H.R.H. the Prince of Wales in the same sense.
But the objections to that appointment at present
seem to be too strong.

Lord Salisbury has written to the Bishop of
London.

[Cop?/.] Bishop Temple to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Folhajm Palace, 23) d October 1896.

My dear Lord Salisbury, — I am very conscious
of many deficiencies in my qualifications for such a
post as that of Archbishop of Canterbury. But I
believe nevertheless that I could do the Church good
service in that capacity, and I do not feel that I have
any right to refuse the call which her Majesty has
made upon me. I will do my best to carry on the
work which the late Archbishop, my most intimate
friend for forty years, has been doing with such
marked success.

I beg of you to submit to the Queen, with my
sincerest loyalty, my acceptance of her Majesty’s
offer. Believe me, yours very truly, F. London.

[Telegram.] Bishop Davidson to Queen Victoria.

Farnham, 23rd Oct. 1896. — I am more thankful
than I can express. It is an unspeakable blessing.
Most grateful to your Majesty for message. Winton.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegrams.]

Balmoral Castle, 23rd Oct. 1896. — ^Am very much
surprised and I must say disappointed at the Bishop
of London’s acceptance. But the Church will most
likely approve it. I had a second letter from the
Bishop of Winchester yesterday, hoping the Bishop of
London would accept, if even only for a year. The
personality seems to me very unsuited to the position.

2Mh Oct. — ^Thanks for your letter received this

1896] THE BISHOPRIC OE LONDON 101

morning. I quite understand reasons, and agree it is
best so.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Bishop Davidson.

Balmoral Castle, [? Oct] — I have three

very kind and interesting letters to thank you for.

You will perhaps have guessed what I wished for
the Primacy ? It was yourself, and for the following
reasons : My opinion is that you possessed the
necessary qualities for that important post, and above
all because your great intimacy with the two last
great Primates enabled you to know their views and
their work. In fact, I think their mantle has fallen
upon you.

Lord Salisbury, though speaking of you in the
highest terms, says that you are the youngest of the
Bishops, and you have had rapid preferment, and that
it would be an advantage to you if the Bishop of
London became Archbishop for a short while; my
wishes would then be accomplished. I do not like
the choice at all, and think the Bishop of London’s
presence eminently unsuited to the post.

There comes the choice for the Bishop of London,
quite as important a post ! The Archbishop of York
and the Prince of W^es were very anxious that the
Bishop of Peterborough should be the Primate.
Perhaps that would not have done, though it might
for London. . . .

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 27th Oct. 1896. — I have re-
ceived your letter.^ London should not be offered
to the Bishop of Winchester, as his health would not
allow of his doing so. I would write him.

The Bishop of Peterborough would do admirably

1 Lord Salisbury had recommended Dr. Davidson for London in the
first place ; but, if he declined, then Dr. Creighton, Bishop of Peter-
borough ; and Mr. Glyn, the Vicar of Kensington, to be Bishop of
Peterborough.

102 THE TSAR AND EGYPT [chap, xii

for it, and I should gladly see Mr. Glyn promoted
to a Bishopric.

Queen Victoria to Bishop Davidson.

[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 2 Qth Oct. 1896. — Lord Salis-
bury wished for you to go to London, but feared for
your health. I said it must not be offered to you, as
it would be utter ruin to your health. I have ap-
proved Peterborough, the only other proposed. Mr.
Glyn to be offered Peterborough.’^

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

29th Oct. 1896. — Lord Salisbury . . . has spoken
to M. de Staal, and the Ambassador agrees with Lord
Salisbury in entirely failing to remember any question
asked of the British Government by the Prince
LobanofC on the subject of the Suez Canal. Both
were wholly unable to conjecture what it was to
which Prince Lobanolf was alluding ; and were of
opinion that, in thinking he had addressed such a
question to the British Government, the Prince’s
memory had failed him.

The Emperor’s answer to your Majesty’s observa-
tions about Egypt is unfortunate. His ground for
objecting to our presence in Egypt is not reasonable.
What will always give us an influence over the canal
is om’ fleet, not the slender force which we could send
against it from Cairo. This ground for Russia’s
opposition to our stay in Egypt was never advanced
before the time of Prince Lobanoff. Whether the
Emperor has entirely inherited Prince Lobanoff’ s
view may be doubted. Even if he differed from it,
he would probably wish to postpone for the present
any avowal of that difference — ^for appearance’ sake,
in order not to exhibit a break in Russian policy —

’ In reply Bishop Davidson ■wrote on 1st November of his “ sense
of the thoughtful kindness and the far too generous estimate of himself ”
sho'wn by the Queen. He added ; “ I should not in any circumstances
feel it to be right at present, when I am, thank God, perfectly strong
and ■well, to return to the London ■work, especially the night-work,
which was formerly too much for my strength.”

VENEZUELA—SETTLEMENT

103

1896]

and also because an assent to our staying in Egypt
might be something for him to offer, whenever the
ownership of the Straits may come under discussion.

Lord Salisbury certainly understood the Emperor
to say he had no objection to our remaining in Egypt.
But he stopped suddenly and turned the conversation,
as though he felt he was committing an imprudence.

Bishop Creighton to the Marquis of Salisbury.
\Copyi\ The Palace, Petebboeough, 30//i October 1898.

My dear Lord, — It is with a very deep sense of
responsibility that I place myself at her Majesty’s
disposal to serve the great diocese of London. In
such a matter I do not see that there is any place for
personal preference, or that it is possible to do other-
wise than obey.

I would thank your Lordship very warmly for the
terms in which you have conveyed to me a proposal,
which I am bound to regard as conveying a very high
distinction, and for the confidence which it betokens.
I am deeply sensible of the greatness of the work to
which you have called me, and of its importance.
God help me !

I would beg you to convey to her Majesty the
assurance of my loyal devotion and of my gratitude
for this mark of her favour. Believe me to be, yours
very truly, M. Petriburg.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

5th Nov. 1896, — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully submits to your Majesty that a
Cabinet Council was held to-day.

The principal business transacted was the approval
of the last proposal made by Mr. Olney for the settle-
ment of the Venezuela controversy. The question
was how to define “ settled districts,” which we
maintain ought not to be put in peril of alienation
from your Majesty’s dominion by reference of their
nationality to an arbitrator. At last, after much
informal discussion, Mr. Olney proposes that the same

104 QUEEN AND SIB. H. KITCHENER [chap, xii

rule of prescription shall protect the subjects of the
Empire against the claims of a neighbouring State as
would protect them in their private capacity against
the claims of a neighbouring landowner ; and to this
principle the Cabinet resolved to agree. . . .

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, Qth Nov. 1896. — There seems to be
immense relief at the election of President McKinley,
as so many people who have money in America would
have lost considerably had the other candidate ^ been
elected, who was a Bimetallist.

Windsor Castle, IQth Nov. — ^After tea saw good
land Mrs. Benson, the dear Archbishop’s widow, and
she sat with me some time, telling me of his beautiful
end. She praised Bishop Temple, and said he had
been her husband’s true friend for forty years, that
he was very land and good, though he had perhaps a
certain roughness of manner. Mrs. Benson shares my
wish that Bishop Davidson could have been appointed
to the Primacy, as he had the traditions of the two
Archbishops, but perhaps, on account of his being so
much younger, it is better that Bishop Temple should
succeed now. On a future occasion it would sure[ly]
be Bishop Davidson, if Ms life should be spared.
Cecilia Do wne, who has succeeded Louisa A [ntrim], the
Breadalbanes, Lord Kintore, Sir Herbert Kitchener, Sir
A. Bigge, Minnie C[ochrane], and Colonel Clerk dined.

Sir Herbert Kitchener is a striking, energetic-
looking man, with rather a firm expression, but very
pleasing to talk to. He brought me back very interest-
ing trophies, which were placed on a table in the
corridor. The drum is beaten to rally or alarm the
troops. The spear’s head is very formidable, and the
inscription on the sword, in English, is most curious,
showing clearly that it was used in the Crusades.
There are two flags, the smaller one of which was
flying on the tower of Dongola, and was recognised by
Slatin when they captured the place. There are some

^ Mr, Bryan.

1896] SUGGESTIONS FOR JUBILEE 105

words of the Koran inscribed on them. Sir H.
Kitchener told me that eight hundred of the dervishes
came over to him and fought against their country-
men. At Dongola it was the first time they had fled
without fighting. Sir H. Kitchener said it was quite
true that they had found a number of quite little
children, even babies, strewn on the ground near
Dongola, having been dropped by the women in their
flight.

23rd Nov. — ^After tea went to the Red drawing-
room, where so-called “ animated pictures ” were
shown off, including the groups taken in September at
Balmoral. It is a very wonderful process, represent-
ing people, their movements and actions, as if they
were alive.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

[? Aou.] 1896. — Humble duty. I hope to meet the
Russian Ambassador at Sandringham to-day, and I
will try to ascertain the meaning of apparent con-
tradiction.

I am very apprehensive of seeming to quote
against the Emperor of Russia what he has said to
your Majesty or others in this country, lest he should
resent it, but M. de Staal is a very safe man.

Mr. Schomherg McDonnell to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Private. Fobeign office, ZUh November 1896.

My dear Bigge, — I have shown your letter about
the Queen visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral^ to Lord
Salisbury. He did not, however, make any remark
upon it. If the idea assumes a more definite form, it
would be as well to square the Dean, as he, not the
Bishop, has, I believe, the control of the Church.

I fear you would find that the idea of bringing
horses into the building would shock the people ;
why, however, should they not be taken out and H.M.
drawn in procession up the aisle ? It would be a

> Eor tVio Jnhiloo in 1 897,

106 QUEEN AND ROYAL ACADEMY [chap, xii

magnificent spectacle, and wonld afford the Queen the
minimum of discomfort. Yours very truly, Schom-
BERG K. McDonnell.

JExtract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 25th Nov. 1896. — After tea
received the Secretary of the Royal Academy, and
signed and approved the resolution appointing Mr.
Poynter President, The latter then came in, and I
knighted and gave him the badge. It is very sad to
think that much about this time last year I still saw
poor Lord Leighton, who died towards the end of
January, and that his successor,^ whom I received in
the spring, then already suffering from some serious
malady, died in August.

Mr. Schomberg McDonnell to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Private. Foreign Office, 27 th November 1896,

My dear Bigge, — ^Your idea of an outdoor Te
Deum sounds splendid. But I fear the want of space
would be a great difficulty. However all, as you say,
depends upon the Chancellor of the Exchequer. . . .
Yours very truly, Schomberg K. McDonnell.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 2Uh Nov. 1896. — Had some
conversation after dinner with the Bishop,® who is
very clever and agreeable, and so sensible and large-
minded. He spo& of the Russians and Russia with
great interest, and said that their Church was very
symbolical and simple, so that it could be easily
understood. He has delivered a lecture on national
character, which he wishes to send me.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Windsor Castle, 28th Nov. 1896.— Dr. Jameson
is very ill, and has suffered severely from the confine-

' Sir John Millais.

® Creighton of Peterborough, who had just been designated for the
see of London. He had been present at the Coronation ceremonies in

Mnspow in the "iitiTTriTi

Gol Gfir Dirihur G^iqqey, G^G. 9^.
i8d9

S^tmMofiis ^r-d S^iam^ordAom, 9?G,SG^,3G'9S,SG^(5

1896] DR. JAMESON RELEASED 107

ment to prison. He [ought] surely to be released on
medical grounds.

Every week about, I get submissions Tor revisions,
for every sort of crime, of days and weeks, and none
of these sentences on medical grounds.

Sir Matthew Ridley to Queen Victoria.

{Cypher Telegram.^

2Qth Nov. 1896. — Humble duty. Dr. Jameson
informed this evening that he will be released as soon
as it is safe to move him.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, ZOth Nov. 1896. — Had a long
talk with Mr. Chamberlain, who hoped that thefighting
in South Africa was over, though there might still be
some trouble from other tribes. The Chief Khama,
who was here last year, has been very useful, but had
suffered very much. The most serious difficulty
now was the cattle disease which could not be
stopped.

Mr. Chamberlain said he was convinced Mr.
Rhodes had had nothing to do with the unfortunate
raid, but had sympathised very much with the poor
people at J ohannesburg, who had suffered a good deal.
Dr. Jameson had been prepared to act, but had
received no orders to do so, and even when advancing
of his own accord, unsupported by those he expected
would join him, he had been told to come back, which
he unfortunately did not do.

5th Dec. — Emily Ampthill, who has succeeded
CeciliaD[owne],VictoriaG[rant], Ethel C[adogan], Lord
Rosebery, Vice-Admiral Sir John Fisher, the Dean of
Canterbury, and Sir A. Bigge dined. Lord Rosebery
was looking very well and was extremely kind and
pleasant. I praised his speech and his action in re-
signing the leadership of his party He quite agreed
in what was being done about Egypt, and was anxious

* See Introductoiy Note to this chapter.

108 NO CROWNED HEADS FOR JUBILEE [chap, xii

we should go to Khartoum to wipe out the stain on
England’s character.

9th Dec . — Emily A[rapthill], Ethel C., Mr. and Mrs.
Curzon, Mr. Balfour, Lord Bridport, Sir A. Bigge,
and Colonel Davidson dined. Mrs, Curzon, who is an
American from Washington, is very handsome and
ladylike. Mr. Balfour gave a good account of things
in general and of the probable arrangement of Egyptian
money affairs, which he said were in fact favourable
to us, and he hoped that very early in the summer
an advance would be made farther south. He thought
Lord Salisbury very well, but not so Lady Salisbury.
Had some long conversation also with Mr. Curzon,^
who is clever and agreeable.

15th Dec . — Before dinner I saw Lord Salisbury.
We talked of most things and important questions ;
amongst others we discussed the Honours to be given
at the New Year, which include a peerage for Sir J.
Lister. He attended me at Balmoral in 1871, and .is
the head of the B.oyal Society and College of Surgeons.
He is famous for having ^scovered the antiseptic
treatment of wounds. Lord Salisbury explained that
he wished to bring into the House of Lords men of
science and art. I quite agreed with his view.

19th Dec . — Saw Ilr. Felix Semon about my throat,
which has given me a little trouble of late.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Fobeign Oi'I'ice, 16//1 Decemher 1896.

Dear Sir Arthur, — The Queen might like to
know that in comphance with her commands I have
intimated to the Ambassadors of Germany and
Austria that no crowned heads will be asked to the
20th of June.

I gave a similar instruction to the Siamese Minister,
who had announced to me that his King was coming.
Believe me, yours very truly, Salisbury,

^ Afterwards Viceroy of India and ultimately Marquis Curzon of
Kedleston, K.G.

1896]

KAISER’S SEASONABLE WISHES

109

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

18 th December 1896.

Dearest Grandmama, — ^My wishes for Xmas and
for the New Year which is approaching are if possible
more fervent than usual, as the closing year has been
one of sorrow, caused by the loss of one so beloved,
and by the death of friends, whereas the New Year
will be the sixtieth of a reign as marvellous for its
length as it has been a blessing to the people, who
have the privilege of living under the mild sway of
your kind sceptre. May Providence let you enjoy
this Xmas and the New Year in peace and happiness,
surrounded by those you love and who adore you;
may Heaven shield your precious health and life
from all evil, for the welfare of your people, and for
the maintenance of the peace of the world ! . . .

Come what may, I shall always be glad to assist
anybody for the preservation of “ Peace and Goodwill
among men.”

With my sincerest and warmest wishes for you
in 1897 I with much love and respect kiss your hands
and remain. Ever your most devoted and dutiful
Grandson, William I. R.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 20th Dec. 1896. — There has come a very
satisfactory telegram, stating that Nicky had sent a
special message to the Sultan, warning him in the
strongest terms to do what the Powers advised, else
coercive measures would have to be employed. This
sounds very encouraging.

Lord George Hamilton to Queen Victoria.

Coates Castle, Pulborough, 27th Dec. 1896. —
... In the list of honours submitted to the Queen
by the Secretary of State for India, five names, all
British, were submitted for the order of the Star of
India ; for the Empire of India ten names, four of
which were those of natives of India.

The Prime Minister has informed Lord George

no QUEEN AND AECHBISHOP TEMPLE [chap, xii

that the Queen now desires that the additions to
the Star of India should include natives of India, and
Lord George has telegraphed to the Viceroy of India
to ask for fresh names.

A reply may he expected at once, but Lord George
fears that the submission will have to be sent to and
approved by her Majesty through the telegraph if
the new names are to be included in the Gazette of
31st December, 1896.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, SQth Dec. 1896. — The new Archbishop
of Canterbury (Dr. Temple) did homage, the Bishop
of Winchester attending as Clerk of the Closet, and
Sir Matthew Ridley administered the oath. After-
wards the Archbishop had an audience, and then I
went upstairs. Jane C[hurchill], Evelyn M[oore], the
Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of Winchester,
Sir Matthew White Ridley, and Lord E. Clinton dined.
The Archbishop sat near me, and he certainly is very
clever and has much to say.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Neues Palais, Slst Dec. 1896. — Sincerely do I
mourn with you and the Royal Navy the death of
the Veteran of our service, Sir Alex Milne. I have
ordered Vice-Admiral Koester, in command of the
Baltic Station, to represent me at the funeral of the
venerable old officer whose colleague to have been I
feel most proud. William I. R.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 31^i Dec. 1896. — ^This is the last day
of the year which has brought us such sorrow and
destroyed the whole happiness of my precious child,
who bears her heavy burden with so much courage
and resignation. But I suffer terribly for her. In
the midst of our trials I cannot, however, forget that
there are great mercies.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO CHAPTER XIII

On 20th June, 1897, Queen Victoria completed the
sixtieth year of her reign, and this second, or Diamond,
Jubilee ■was celebrated throughout her Empire 'with not less
enthusiasm than the first Jubilee, and with a still deeper
personal feeling. The day happened to be a Sunday ;
and on that morning, in places of worship everywhere
throughout her realm, at home and overseas, services of
Thanksgiving were held — the Queen herself worshipping,
surrounded by her family, in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor.
On the following Tuesday, the 22nd, welcomed by a contin-
uous roar of cheers from her enthusiastic people, she drove
in State for tlmee hours through the thronged and gaily
decorated streets of London ; going from Ruckingham
Palace to the City by the famous thoroughfares north of the
river, and retm'ning through districts occupied by her poorer
subjects south of the river; pausing half-way at the steps of
St. Paul’s Cathedral, where, as she sat in her carriage, a short
service was held, and the Te Deum sung, in the open air.
There were no kings this time in the wonderful procession
which escorted her Majesty ; but there was a significant
Imperial representation of every race or nation acknowledging
the Queen’s supremacy — especially Colonial and Indian
troops in considerable number and picturesque variety, and
the Prime Ministers of all the self-governing Colonies, headed
by the Premier of the Dominion of Canada.

The assemblage of these Prime Ministers was due to the
growth, both at home and throughout her Majesty’s domin-
ions, of inter-imperial sentiment, of a desire for closer Imperial
relations. Mr. Chamberlain’s administration at the Colonial
Office was deeply penetrated with this spirit. At his instance
aU the Prime Ministers were sworn in as Privy Councillors,
and several of them were knighted. He presided over this
first Imperial Conference, and directed the attention of its
members to various matters of common interest, commercial
relations, imperial defence, postal and cable communications,
immigration of aliens, and in particular the question of
closer political union ; offering in all cases the initiative to
the Colonies, but adding that the Mother Country would go
half-way to meet them. His own suggestion, as regards
political union, was to begin with the formation of a Great
Council of the Empire. But, though several Empire Ministers
advocated tentative advances in this direction, the Australians

112 INTRODUCTORY NOTE [chap, xiii

thought such ideas of doubtful -wisdom, though the whole
Conference adopted a resolution in favour of the fedei’al
union of Colonies geographically united. In regard to
commercial relations, the “ preference ” lead given by
Canada was taken up. The Conference asked that the
British Government should denounce all treaties (e.g. those
with Germany and Belgium) which hampered such relations
— ^whioh was promptly done ; and the Premiers resolved to
consult with their colleagues on their return home on the
question of giving preference to the products of the United
Kingdom. Finally, the Conference declared in favour of
periodical Imperial Confex-ences for the future.

While Sir Wilfrid Laurier was in England, the pre-
ferential tariff bill was passing through the Legislature at
Ottawa ; but interest in Canada was mainly fixed on the
great discoveries of gold in the Klondylce valley of the Yukon
district on the border of Alaska. In Australia the year was
largely occupied by Conventions and Conferences on Federa-
tion ; but progress was not rapid. South African afi'airs
still occupied the public eye. The House of Commons
Committee on the Jameson Raid, after examining at length
Mr. Rhodes, Dr. Jameson, and many other witnesses, pro-
nounced in their report in July a severe condemnation of the
raid, and of the conduct of Mr. Rhodes and of several of the
officials of the Chartered Company under him who, whether
cognisant or not of the actual raid, avowedly conspired to
assist insurrection in the Transvaal by means of an invasion
of British forces from British territory. But the Committee
absolved the Secretary of State, the High Commissioner of
South Africa, the Colonial Office, and the Directors of the
Company as a Board, of any knowledge or complicity. The
Government curtailed the powers of the Company, so as to
prevent the possibility of any such action in future. Parlia-
ment, except for Mr. Labouchere and the Radicals, showed
no disposition to go farther. While the enquiry was in
progress, the Transvaal Government presented its bill for
damages sustained through the raid, claiming £677,938 for
material damage, and £1,000,000 for “ moral and intellectual
damage ” ; and President Khuger visited President Steyn at
Bloemfontein in March, and was believed to have arranged
with him for joint action between the two Dutch States in
case of attack. Sir Alfred Milner was appointed Governor
of Cape Colony and High Commissioner for South Africa.

The Indian Princes were little represented at this Jubilee,

1897] INTRODUCTORY NOTE 113

as they were unfortunately busily engaged in coping, in their
own States, with the plague and famine with which India
was this year afflicted. To these misfortunes was added
great unrest on the North-west frontier, involving punitive
expeditions. In the Soudan the year was mainly occupied
in pushing on the desert railway and accumulating stores ;
hut the advanced position was improved by the occupation
of Abu Hamed (after a stiff fight) and of Berber ; and
Ministers emphasised in the debates on the Address in both
Houses that the occupation of Khartoum sooner or later was
the aim of the expedition.

In his speech in the House of Lords Lord Salisbury made
the remarkable confession that in our Eastern policy we had
“ staked our money on the wrong horse,” and that it would
have been wiser in 1853 to accept the proposals of the Emperor
Nicholas than to adopt the policy which led to the Crimean
War. As we had alienated Russia, the best course was to
work through the Powers in concert, and if necessary to pledge
them to use force to coerce the Sultan. In carrying out
his policy Lord Salisbury had a difficult year, as the Kaiser
was enthely against the coercion of the Sultan and the Tsar
little disposed to it. In 1897 Crete and Greece were the
trouble rather than Armenia. The island, largely Greek in
population, had long been' a part of the Turkish Empire.
Owing to Turkish misgovernment, the European Powers,
whose fleets lay at anchor there, would not allow further
Tm-kish forces to be sent ; and early in the year the local
authorities were powerless, and there was a riot of murder
and pillage on the part both of Mohammedans and of
Christians. The Greeks sent troops under Colonel Vassos to
help the Greek insurgents who demanded union with Greece.
The admirals landed men to guard the towns and bombarded
insurgents who attacked them ; and both Greece and Turkey
prepared for war on the Thessalian frontier. Finally, mainly
on Lord Salisbury’s proposal, the Power’s decided that, while
Crete could irot be annexed to Greece, an absolutely elective
autonomy should be established there ; and they directed
Greece to remove her troops from the island. While Turkey
accepted Cretan autonomy, Greece refused to remove her
troops. In the war which followed in April, the Turks were
speedily successful, having occupied by the beginning of May
ThessalyandEpirus, while Greece was appealing to the Powers
to save her. She was compelled to accept the autonomy of
Crete and order her troops to leave the island before even

114 INTRODUCTORY NOTE [chap, xiii

obtaining an armistice ; and by the peace, though Thessaly
and Epirus were restored to her, she had to pay £T4,000,000
indemnity to Turkey. Public opinion in England was
throughout strongly sympathetic with Greece.

Russia again loomed large in Europe, M. Mouravieff
showing himself a capable Foreign Minister. The Tsar
entertained at St. Petersburg in August the Kaiser, who said
that their two nations desired peace ; and in September
President Paure, during whose visit the official talk was of
nations alliees. Austria also, under Count Goluchowsky,
aligned herself rather with Russia than with England.
France, in her domestic politics, was torn in two by the
Dreyfus case. His family and friends succeeded in pro-
ducing sufficient evidence to impugn seriously the justice of
his condemnation for treason in 1894 by a military tribunal ;
but the Government and the majority of the nation relied on
the chose jugee. In Germany, Count von Billow was ap-
pointed Foreign Minister, and steps were taken to strengthen
the Navy. On the ground of the murder of two German
missionaries, a spectacular naval expedition, under the
command of Prince Henry of Prussia, was sent to China,
and on 3rd December occupied the city and fort of Kiao-chau.
Whereupon on 18th December a Russian squadron steamed
into Port Arthur “ to pass the winter there ” ; and on the
27th it was announced that Russia had occupied the harbour
of Kinchau, on the same peninsula a short distance away.
In Spain Sehor Canovas, the Premier, was assassinated,
and eventually Senor Sagasta became Premier. General
Weyler failed, as Marshal Campos had failed, to subdue the
Cuban insurrection ; General Blanco was now sent with
instructions to bring about a settlement. The United States
became increasingly impatient, and President McKinley
uttered an impressive warning. A general treaty of arbi-
tration, which had been negotiated between the United States
and Great Britain, was rejected by the Senate.

In domestic politics Mr. Balfour succeeded in passing
into law, without amendment and by enormous majorities,
a limited Education Bill to meet the needs of Voluntary
Schools, in spite of prolonged and impassioned opposition
by Mr. Lloyd George and others ; and carried also an import-
ant Employers’ Liability Bill, part of Mr. Chamberlain’s
social programme. The Navy having already been strength-
ened, the strengthening of the Army was begun this year.

CHAPTER XIII
1897

Queen Victoria to the Earl of Elgin.

[Cypher Telegram.}

Osborne, Isi Jan. 1897. — The account of the
Plague in Bombay seems serious. Are the physicians
unable to check it ? Would not some more European
ones be useful ? It seems such a horrible disease. The
accounts of the famine in parts sound very distressing.

The Earl of Elgin to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

2nd Jan. 1897. — . . . We have given Bombay
Government every assistance, including services of
a European specialist. Director-General of Medical
Service is proceeding to Bombay to confer with local
officer. Your Majesty may rely on every effort being
made to meet distress.

Numbers to be relieved must for the present
increase, though rain, if continued, will shorten time
of pressure.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Potsdam, 2nd January 1897.

Dearest Gr.andmama, — ^This very moment your
splendid photograph was handed to me, and is before
me on my writing table. I think it is a first-rate
hkeness, and to me the more valuable, as it represents
you as you are in the sixtieth year of your prosperous
and glorious reign. I am deeply thankful for this new,
kind Ueberraschung, which has brought me such
unexpected pleasure.

TTT 9

116

116

THE KAISER AND THE JUBILEE [chap, xiii

Mama has arrived for her stay at Berlin, looking
remarkably well and in excellent spirits, having three
baby grandchildren to look after. . . .

Your kind proposal to send Uncle Arthur for the
unveiling of Grandpapa’s statue on the anniversary
of his hundredth birthday will give great pleasure
here everywhere, and I look forward to his visit with
joy. I hope you will allow the Colonel and some of
the officers of my Dragoons to accompany him.

Have you any plans or wishes about our coming
or not coming for your Jubilee, and whether some of
our children are to come with us or not ? I venture
to ask so as to be able to arrange for the summer plans
and to know exactly what your wishes are. With
my sincerest thanks and very best love, I most res-
pectfully remain, ever your most dutiful and devoted
Grandson, William I. R.

Viscount Wolseley to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Bath, 7 th January 1807.

My deab Bigge, — . . . I am writing to Lord
Lansdowne to-day, telling him the Queen’s wishes i
about the Guards. I shall send you, when I return to
London on Monday, the letters from all three of the
Generals Commanding regiments of Guards conveying
to me their approval of the scheme : viz. from H.R.H.
the Duke of Connaught, H.R.H. the Duke of Cam-
bridge, and Sir Fredk. Stephenson. Also a letter
written in a similar spirit from Lord Methuen, now
commanding the Home District.

The boon to the Guards of giving them these two
extra battalions is so great, that we certainly ought
not to let the opportunity slip of securing it, even
though a few respectable old gentlemen in the Guards
Club would have us reject it. I fear the Queen’s
army would be a curious institution if they were
allowed to manage it according to their notions !

We are never again likely to have such good

' Eor these, see the followincf letter.

137

1897] THE QUEEN AND THE GUARDS

terms offered, and I have no hesitation in recommend-
ing them to be closed with. It will be for the Qneen
to settle all minor details. . . .

If I thought it would in any way injure the
Guards I would not recommend this proposal to the
Queen. But speaking as a soldier, I know that it must
be beneficial to the Guards to have a Brigade under a
Guards Brigadier in the Mediterranean. It will give
to its officers and men a chance of active service that
they have never had before. If it became known in
the Army that this addition to the Army was prevented
because a certain set of Guards’ offieers objected to
all foreign service in peace, it would be in future
practically impossible to give them a share in all our
little wars as it has always been my endeavour to do,
and as I succeeded in doing in 1882, 1885, and even
lately in Ashanti. I do not mind telling you that it
was I who insisted upon a Brigade of Foot Guards
being sent to Egypt with me in 1882, and that even
the Duke of Cambridge did not approve of my taking
the Life Guards there. I always preach to the Line
that the Guards ought to be the model on which they
should form themselves, but if, to please a few gentle-
men (who have been) in the Guards, this scheme were
now abandoned, it would be difficult to persuade any
right-minded soldier that my sermon was a good one.
Believe me to be, very sincerely yours, Wolseley.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

[Gop^.] OsBOBNE, Sth January 1897.

My deae Lord Lansdowne, — . . . The Queen
only wishes me to make it quite clear that she approves
of the scheme [about the Guards] on the understand-
ing that the present standard of the Guards is main-
tained, both in physique and as regards the class from
which they are recruited, and that the battalions, both
at home and abroad, are kept up to their full strength.
H.M. is very glad to know that the Gibraltar brigade
will be commanded by a Guardsman, and that the term
of service will be for a year.

118 QUEEN AND DISTRESS IN INDIA [cir'AP. xin

With the objections urged to Gibraltar as a “ penal
settlement,” a “ prison,” etc., that the officers of the
Guards cannot go abroad, that they have properties
to manage and other responsibilities which necessitate
their remaining at home, and that the present class
of officer will not in the future go into the Brigade
under the new system, H.M. cannot sympathise.
Yours very truly, A. B.

Sir Fleetwood Edwards to Queen Victoria.

Qth Jan. 1897. — Humbly submitted by Sir Fleet-
wood Edwards. He has thanked the Lord Mayor
for his telegram, and informed him that your Majesty
wishes to contribute £500; and, in accordance with
this telegram from Lord George Hamilton, Sir
Fleetwood has also telegraphed to the Viceroy that
your Majesty will he Patron of the Relief Fund.

The Mayor of Coventry to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Greylands, Coventry, 11th January 1807.

Deae Sie, — Recalling the events of ten years ago,
when her Majesty graciously accepted a number of
gifts from her subjects, I am anxious to ascertain
whether I should be permitted, in connection with the
celebration of next summer, to present to her Majesty,
in my capacity as Mayor of Coventry, specimens of
the products of the three principal industries of the
City, viz. a ribbon, a watch, and a bicycle.

In order to avoid trade jealousies and also to
obviate any danger of the presentation being made the
occasion for advertising, I propose to keep the matter
in my own hands, without consultation with any
committee, and to select manufacturers of the highest
reputation.

I would not give these manufacturers more than
general instructions as to size, design, and style, e.g.
whether the watch should be a hunter or open face,
whether it should be enamelled with the Royal Arms
or with some other design, whether the bicycle should
be a lady’s or a gentleman’s and so on. The design

1897j COVENTRY AND THE JUBILEE 119

of the ribbon I should propose to submit for approval.
But subject to such instructions as I have mentioned,
I should propose to leave the execution entirely to
the manufacturers, rel5dng on their taste and skill
as well as their zeal.

My object in writing to you is to ask if you would
kindly ascertain if her Majesty would be likely to
deign. to accept such a gift at my hands, and if so, I
would proceed to get out designs for her Majesty’s
selection ?

If you would advise that I write a letter which you
could show to her Majesty, I should be very glad of a
hint to that effect. I am, dear sir, yours faithfully,
Albert S. Toms on, Mayor.

The Duke of Connaught to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Bagshot Park, StmuKY, llth January 1897.

My dear Bigge, — I am delighted to hear from
your letter that on second thoughts the Queen agrees
to an open-air Te Deum in front of St. Paul’s. I
always hoped that after further consideration she
would do so. . . .

I am afraid that the increase of the Guards is a
very vexed question. I find that, combined with the
sending out of three battalions to Gibraltar [it] is
universally condemned by all present Guardsmen.
Myself I don’t think they will get the men, especially
at the present standard. In the Scots Guards, we are
eighty below strength at the present moment, and now
is generally the best recruiting season in the year.
While wishing to see the Guards increased, I very
much regret their being sent abroad in peace time.
It cannot but ultimately affect injuriously the status
of the Guards if they are put on the Foreign Service
roster. The demand for garrisoning our coaling
stations will go on increasing, and it seems a great
pity that the Marines should not be increased for this
amphibious duty. You have no idea how strong and
universal is the feeling in the Guards against their
being permanently removed, as regards a portion of

120 THE PRINCE AND THE GUARDS [chap, xiii

them, from the country. I think Wolseley discounts
this, but I have found out that the feeling is general,
though many don’t like to give expression to it.
Believe me, yours very sincerely, Arthur.

{Co'py.l Sir Arthur Bigge to Sir Francis Knollys.

OsBORNP, 12yi January 189Y.

My dear Knollys, — ^The Queen has seen me with
regard to your letter of yesterday respecting the
Guards, and desires me to say that she is very sorry
to be unable to approve of a letter being written to
Lord Lansdowne in the terms suggested by his Royal
Highness.

Her Majesty quite agrees with the Prince’s view
that the period of service at Gibraltar should be at the
most a year and a half, and Lord Lansdowne has been
informed to that effect. But the Queen is disinclined
to suggest that the arrangement should only be
regarded as a temporary one. Much as she would like
to see a permanent Brigade of Guards at Aldershot,
her Majesty understands that an increase of the Guards
without foreign service would meet with strong
opposition both in and out of Parliament.^

If the scheme works badly and the Guards suffer,
the Queen says it can always be reconsidered.

[Telegram.] The Earl of Elgin to Queen Victoria.

Calcutta, 15th Jan. 1897. — ^Your Majesty’s
patronage of Famine Fund enthusiastically received
at large meeting yesterday. Movement successfully
started. Viceroy.

The Empress Frederick to Queen Victoria.
[Copy.] Private.

Kaiser Pbiedrich Palais, Berlin, 16th January 1897,

... In a letter I received from Sophie ® I find
the following passage which I simply repeat in the

* Sir Francis Knollys replied next day that the Prince of Wales
•was “ bitterly disappointed ” at the Queen’s decision.

“ The Crown Princess of Greece, Duchess of Sparta, the Empress
Frederick’s daughter.

1897] LORD MAYOR AND JUBILEE 121

hopes that Lord Salisbury and you may find a means
of preventing what would be horrible. I have of
course no right to speak about it, but if one can do any
good by not being silent, it is better to speak ! Here
I should not dare do so, but perhaps you could tell
Lord Salisbury ; he is wise, and will perhaps find a
way of warding off a misfortune which may assume
greater dimensions than we can foresee.

Sophie says, “ I am dying to go to Grandmama’s
Jubilee, but there will be many things to prevent it,
also, I fear, fighting in Macedonia and Crete ; there is
no possibility or hope of preventing people here, they
are pousses d bout, exasperated ; they make their
preparations secretly, do not speak about it in general !
It will be known soon enough ! ! This is, alas, the result
of the Powers doing nothing decided enough and let-
ting matters drift.” You can imagine how this tor-
ments me ! The Sultan is an impossible creature, and
does not keep a single promise ! He is so false, sly, and
mad, and such awfully untrustworthy people about
him. . . .

The Lord Mayor of London to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Private and Confidential.

The Mansion House, London, IGth January 1897.

Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, — It is the earnest wish
of the citizens of London that they should enjoy the
opportunity of welcoming her gracious Majesty the
Queen at St. Paul’s Cathedral, in the heart of their
city, on the occasion of the celebration of the un-
precedented event to which the entire nation is look-
ing forward. I hardly need to assure you that this
sentiment is as deeply felt as it is widely extended.

Acquainted as I am with her Majesty’s feeling as
to alighting from her carriage, I will venture to suggest
that a choral reception upon an unprecedented scale
should be arranged as a greeting outside the Cathedral.

May I express the hope that you will favour me
with a line, addressed confidentially, as to the manner
in which the Corporation of the City of London should

122 GREECE AND THE POWERS [chap, xni

submit to her Majesty their loyal address ? I remain,
dear Sir Arthur Bigge, yours faithfully, G. Faudel-
Phillips, Lord Mayor,

[Cop^.] Sir Arthur Bigge to the Lord Mayor of London,

Private. Osborne, 10th January 1897.

My dear Lord Mayor, — The proposal that the
Queen should be present at an open-air service outside
St. Paul’s Cathedral o'n the occasion of the Queen’s
commemoration has already been suggested ; but it
has not yet been actually brought before H.M., as for
many reasons it would be unadvisable just now^ to
submit this officially to the Queen.

Extract from the Qiieen’s Journal.

Osborne, 20i/i Jan. 1897. — This sad anniversary ^
returns for the first time, and the intensity of the loss
is as great as ever. To see my darling child’s happy
married life shattered is too dreadful. But we must
look beyond this world, and pray God to continue to
help her, as He has so visibly done. Many kind
letters and telegrams to both Beatrice and me. At
twelve we all went to a memorial service at Whipping-
ham.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Ofeice, 21^^ Jan. 1897. — Lord Salisbury
, . , tenders his thanks for permission to read the
letter of the Empress Frederick which he returns
herewith.

He fears that there is no step which your Majesty’s
Government could take to guard against the danger
of which H.B.H. the Duchess of Sparta speaks. A
similar danger was averted twelve years ago by a
blockade of the Pirseus, in which the six Powers took
part ; and under the pressure of it the Greek Govern-
ment was able to put a stop to the incursions into
Macedonia. But no such measure would be practic-
able now. Even if the other Powers could be induced

See following extract from the Queen’s Journal.

“ Of the death of Prince Henry of Battenberu.

1897] THE PRINCE AND LONDON HOSPITALS 123

to join, which is very doubtful, Great Britain could
not now take warlike action against Greece for the
purpose of upholding the Sultan’s Government in
Macedonia, where it has been so bad, and so many
promises have been broken.

It would be very desirable if the Ambassadors
could move more rapidly ; but it is very difficult to
obtain a unanimous decision from six different persons,
looking at matters from absolutely different points of
view, upon a problem of unexampled difficulty.

Sir Francis Knollys to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Marlborough House, 22nd January 1897.

My deab Bigge, — The Prince of Wales desires me
to let you know, for the Queen’s information, that he
asked the following to meet him here yesterday, all of
whom, with the exception of the Duke of Westminster
and Lord Londonderry, came. Lord Strafford (Lord-
Lieutenant Middlesex), Duke of Westminster (Lord-
Lieutenant London), Duke of Norfolk, Bishop of
London, Cardinal Vaughan, Bishop of Stepney, Rev. J.
Guinness Rogers (one of the most prominent of the Non-
conformist Ministers in London), Chief Rabbi, Lord
Rothschild, Lord Rowton, Lord Iveagh, Lord Mayor
of London, Chairman of London School Board (Lord
Londonderry), Chairman of London County Council
(Sir Arthur Arnold), Governor of Bank of England
(Mr, A. Sandeman), President of Royal Society (Sir
Joseph Lister), President of Royal College of Physi-
cians (Dr. Wiiks), President of Royal College of
Surgeons (Sir Wm. MacCormac), Sir Horace Farquhar,
M.P. (Metropolitan Member), Mr. John Aird, M.P.
(Metropohtan Member), Mr. Sydney Buxton, M.P.
(Metropolitan Member), Mr. Henry Burdett, Mr. E. A.
Hambro, Mr. Julius Wernher.

H.R.H. was in the Chair, and brought forward his
scheme as London’s local object for celebrating the
sixtieth anniversary of the Queen’s reign, which is
perhaps best explained by the following Resolution
which was proposed by Lord Strafford, seconded by

m “DIAMOND JUBILEE” [chap, xni

the Bishop of London, and carried unanimously,
“ That it is desirable to commemorate the sixtieth year
on the lines suggested by the Prince of Wales with the
object of obtaining at least £100,000 of additional
revenue for the Metropolitan Hospitals and Convales-
cent Institutions, and that this sum be raised in annual
subscriptions of a shilling and upwards from persons
who have not hitherto acquired the habit of giving
regularly to these Institutions.”

I may mention that the meeting was of opinion
that this scheme would not injure the one (the Queen’s
Jubilee Nurses) advocated by the Duke of Westminster,
this latter movement being a national one, whereas the
former will be confined to the Metropolitan area, and
only Londoners will be asked to subscribe to it.

The Prince of Wales’ scheme likewise has for its
object annual subscriptions, while the Duke of
Westminster seeks for donations.

Perhaps it is not generally known that it is
calculated that only 1 per cent, of the population in
London give anything to the Metropolitan Hospitals.
Should the Prince of Wales’ scheme be successful, and
people competent to give an opinion on a matter of
this nature anticipate no difficulty about it, the London
Hospitals will for the future be placed on a sound
financial basis, as they will be able to make their
annual income agree with their expenditure, which
unfortunately at present is not the case with the large
majority of them. Yours sincerely, Francis
Knollys.^

Sir Matthew Ridley to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Private. Home Department, 22wd January 1897.

My dear Bigge, — Certainly I did not personally
care for “ Diamond Jubilee,” but it is not for me or the
H[ome] 0[ffice] to raise objection, if the Queen has a
fancy for it. And apparently it is hkely to catch on.

‘ Wlien this letter was submitted to the Queen, her Majesty quite
approved, but hoped it would in no way interfere with subscriptions
for thp TrHi 'n TT minp

1897] LORD SALISBURY’S SUGGESTIONS 125

“ Jubilee ” has got its meaning from the old Jewish
law, and is certainly inseparably connected with a
notion of fifty years. “ Diamond ” is understood
because it is used to mark the completion of sixty
years of married life — Silver twenty-five. Golden
fifty, Diamond sixty (at least I fancy this is so).
“Diamond Jubilee ” is a combination, and, though not
strictly correct, yet intelligible. Somebody has sug-
gested “ Jubilissimee.” This would not, I think,
take on. I like personally “ The Queen’s Year ” for
the year and “ The Queen’s Commemoration ” for the
ceremony. But I do not for a moment quarrel with
“ Diamond Jubilee ” under the circumstances. . . .
Yours truly, M. W. Ridley.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge,
Foreign Office, 24«/i January 1897.

My dear Sir Arthur, — Present from Mayor of
Coventry J This case is a difficult one. If you accept
all, you will receive a great number which will be mere
advertisements from pushing tradesmen of various
kinds ; and also from people who have a position to
establish, such as Barnato, Hooley, Isaacson, or people
who are on the hunt for knighthoods. On the other
hand, I cannot help feeling the justice of the Queen’s
view that the refusal of the Mayor of Coventry’s
present would give offence.

Would it be possible to make a rule against accept-
ing presents except from public bodies, or persons
representing them ? This would be very elastic : it
would avoid giving offence to the more important
people ; but at the same time would, in the main,
exclude the self-advertisers.

Can you tell me how you stand with respect to the
“ Jubilee ” ? Has the Queen consented, as I hear, to
attend a service in St. Paul’s Churchyard ? Has Mr.
Chamberlain submitted his idea of bringing over some
Prime Ministers from the larger Colonites to be present
on the occasion ? The Chinese hint that they mean to

1 See above, p. 118.

126 CHANGES AT BALMORAL [chap, xni

send an Envoy, arc they to be encouraged ? The
Indian Office have been informed that Indian Princes
are not to be discouraged ; but Crowned Heads have
been definitely rejected. With an improving revenue
the Chancellor of the Exchequer is in a more sanguine
state of mind. Yours very truly, Salisbury.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Mayor of Coventry.

{Co'py.'\ OsBOBNE, 25th January 1897.

Dear Sir, — ^Your letter to me of the 11th inst. has
been duly laid before the Queen.

Her Majesty does not as a rule accept gifts from
private individuals with whom she is personally un-
acquainted. But in view of your official position as
Mayor of your City, the Queen will have much pleasure
in receiving the presents you are kind enough to offer as
specimens of the three principal industries of Coventry.
I am, dear sir, yours very faithfully, Arthur Bigge.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 27i/i Jan. 1897. — Heard the sad news
of Dr. Profeit’s death. He had been ill for a long time,
and latterly there was no hope of recovery. He had
been my Commissioner at Balmoral since ’75, and
resigned on account of his failing health. Another
sad thing is that good old Mrs. Symon, at the shop at
Balmoral, is hopelessly iU and sinking fast. The
place will be quite changed with all the old ties
breaking away.

Sir Francis Knollys to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Sandbingham, 29t7i January 1897.

My dear Bigge, — . . . The Prince of Wales . . .
had already heard from the Empress Frederick about
the Emperor coming over here, and he wrote to her
strongly against the idea. He hopes you will speak
to the Queen very strongly from him in the same
sense. He says that although the German Emperor is
the Queen’s grah.dson, it would be, he is sure, a great
mistake were he to be the only Sovereign invited. He
would arrive also with an enormous suite, and would

1897] JUBILEE ARRANGEMENTS 127

try to arrange things himself and endless trouble would
arise. H.R.H. is certain the Queen will regret it if she
gives way, and he hopes she will not allow herself to
be persuaded by the Empress to consent. . , .

Queen Victmia to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Osborne, SOth Jan. 1897. — Sir A. Bigge may tell
the Prince of Wales that there is not the slightest fear
of the Queen’s givingway about the Emperor William’s
coming here in June. It would never do for many
reasons, and the Queen is surprised that the Empress
should urge it.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Foeeign Ofeice, 31s< January 1897.

My dear Sir Arthur, — ^The Queen Regent of
Holland wishes to know whether H.M. will receive
congratulatory Embassies from Foreign Powers on
the “ Diamond ” Jubilee. The Dutch Minister rather
hinted that the Queen Regent desired to come herself ;
but he particularly desired me to note that she has
not made any such announcement to him.

Beach and Harcourt, the two Chancellors of the
Exchequer, had agreed that they would pay without
stint for big foreign Royalties and the reception of
them. They were therefore very much grieved at the
announcement of “ No crowned heads.” I pointed
out to them that the exertion which the Queen very
rightly desired to avoid as much as possible, would be
involved in the reception of crowned heads more than
in any other ceremony. They remain unconvinced,
and weep over their crowned heads.

I think a Naval Review would be a most fitting
mode of celebration, but the royal presence in some
manner would, I fear, be essential. Yours very truly,
Salisbury.

Lord George Hamilton to Queen Victoria.

India Office, 1st Feb. 1897. — Lord George
Hamilton with his humble duty to your Majesty has

128 SIR A. MILNER FOR S. AFRICA [chap, xiii

the honour to enclose the latest telegrams relating to
the Plague. He has also had two fairly reassuring
letters from Lords Elgin and Sandhurst in regard to
the adequacy of the machinery created to deal with
famine, and the gradual extirpation of the Plague.

Whilst the sufferings of the people are great and
acute, it must be some satisfaction to your Majesty
that it is in your reign that the first systematic efforts
have been made to deal with these evils, and that a few
years back calamities of this magnitude would have
destroyed many millions without hope of help.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 1st Feb. 1897. — ^Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to inform your Majesty that he has to-day heard
from Lord Rosmead, who desires on account of his
health to resign his position at the Cape. Lord
Rosmead is advised by his doctors that it would be
dangerous for him to come home during the English
winter, and he therefore proposes to return by a
steamer leaving in April. He suggests that he might
be granted three months’ leave and retire permanently
in July. Mr. Chamberlain is disposed to think that
it would not be wise to leave this important position
unfilled for so long a period, and he is writing to Lord
Rosmead to suggest that his resignation should take
effect in April or May.

When Lord Rosmead has resigned, Mr. Chamber-
lain proposes to submit to your Majesty, for your
Majesty’s approval, the name of Sir Alfred Milner,
K.C.B., to fill the office of Governor of the Cape and
High Commissioner. Sir Alfred Milner occupied a
high position in Egypt under Lord Cromer, and has a
great reputation for ability, firmness, and discretion.
After discussing the subject with Lord Salisbury,
Mr. Chamberlain feels assured that there is no one
in the Civil Service of your Majesty who is better
qualified to fill this most important and responsible
position.

129

1897] NO CROWNED HEADS AT JUBILEE

Mr. Chamberlain, will make a formal recommenda-
tion to yonr Majesty in due course, when LordRos-
mead’s resignation has been received, but meanwhile,
he humbly submits the foregoing for your Majesty’s
information.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Salisbury.

[ Copy .^ OsBOBNn, Sih February 1897.

Deah Loud Salisbury, — ^The Queen thinks that
it might be well if you were to instruct the Ambas-
sadors at the various Courts (except Berlin) to make
known that the German Emperor had expressed a
wish to be present on the occasion of the Diamond
Jubilee in June next. But her Majesty felt that it
would be impossible at that particular time to show
the Emperor, or any Sovereign, the hospitality and
attention which her Majesty would wish that they
should receive.

The Queen therefore suggested that his Imperial
Majesty should be represented by the Crown Prince
of Germany, to which proposal the Emperor has not
yet given an answer.

The Queen would wish the Ambassadors in making
this announcement to ascertain as soon as possible
whether it is proposed to send any representative of
the Sovereign of the country to which they are res-
pectively accredited. Yours very truly, Arthur
Bigge.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.']

Osborne, Qth Feb. 1897. — Humble duty. We
have done what we can to prevent warlike action on
the part of the Greek Government, and we are asking
Russian Government to exert their influence.

If the French and Russians had allowed the
gendarmerie to be organised three weeks ago, these
calamities would have been prevented. But they
refused their assent because Major Bor, the only
available Commandant, was an Englishman. . . .

130

GREECE AND CRETE

[chap, xiii

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

OsBOENE, nth Feb. 1897. — ^Your letter to the
Queen reporting Cabinet on Guards.^ H.M. desires me
to say though she agreed to the scheme when informed
that it was acceptable to responsible military author-
ities, she nevertheless always thought it would be
preferable to raise more line battalions to meet the
deficiency ; that in present crisis in the East we ought
not to grudge a certain increase of annual expenditure
to make the army effective, to properly adjust the
system of reliefs, to ensure the men not being over-
worked, and in fact not to leave the country destitute
of what is necessary.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foeeign Office, 12th Feb. 1897. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully thanks your Majesty
for your letter of this morning, and for the extract
from the Duchess of Sparta’s letter which he returns.

The danger of allowing the Cretans to declare their
union with Greece or their independence is, that such
a commencement of the partition of the Ottoman
Empire would be immediately followed by risings in
various parts, especially Macedonia, and by a bloody
struggle between the Moslems and the Christians
throughout the Empire. Even in Crete, there would
not be peace ; for it is evident that the Moslems will
fight desperately to be freed from a Christian Govern-
ment.

To support the Cretan insurgents at this time
would be to quarrel with the other Great Powers,
who are at present unanimous in desiring that Crete
shall remain part of the Ottoman Empire ; and
could have no other effect than to increase the area of

1 Lord Salisbury had reported on the previous day that the Cabinet
had had an inconclusive discussion on the subject : “ It is evident
that outside the War Office there is no great acceptance of the scheme.
And some distinguished soldiers, who were in favour of it, appear to
have modified their opinions.” But the scheme was proceeded with.

131

1897] NAVAL COMMANDERS AND CRETE

bloody conflict. Lord Salisbury cannot think that it
is either the duty or the interest of your Majesty to
pursue such a policy. It is impossible not to feel
deep sympathy with the King of Greece in his present
difficulties. But he will probably find it easier to
give way to the Great Powers than to put himself at
the head of all the revolutionary forces in the south-
east of Europe, whom he would soon find to be too
unruly and violent for his control. Lord Salisbury
saw the German, Austrian, and Russian Ambassadors
this evening, and corresponded with the French
Ambassador last night. Their Governments were all
resolutely opposed to the withdrawal of Crete from
the Turkish Empire.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, \^th Feb. 1897. — ^What am I to tell
Empress in answer to telegram from Duke of Sparta ?
The Powers will have to act energetically. But
after such treatment the Cretans will never be quiet
again.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

IMh Feb. 1897. — Humble duty. Lord Salisbury
has received from the Russian Ambassador a com-
munication stating that his Government think, in case
of emergency, the Naval Commanders in Cretan waters
should decide to land detachments and arrange with
Turkish authorities for restoration of tranquillity
The Island would thus be held in trust by European
forces, until solution of Cretan question by the
European concert. Lord Salisbury proposes, with
your Majesty’s approval, replying that we shall be
prepared to instruct our naval officers in the sense
of the communication, if we are informed Imperial

'■ The Queen, in her Journal on the same date, -wrote : “ God grant
that the proposal may he carried out ! ”

182 BISHOPS AND THE JUBILEE [chap, xiii

Government is doing so ; but that we do not propose
taking any isolated action of the kind described.

Bishop Davidson to Sir Fleetwood Edwards.

Fabnham Castle, 14iA February 1897.

My dear Edwards, — I wrote fully to the Arch-
bishop of Canterbury and to the Bishop of London.
I enclose replies.

It is clear the thing can be managed, and, given
fine weather, it may be very effective in all respects.
Pray adhere to the idea of a Te Deum rather than
either Psalms or (far worse) a chorale. The last-
named would have no such national or historic signi-
ficance as a simple Te Deum. The musical author-
ities must be told it is to be no elaborate “ service ” of
Te Deum, but a simple chant or other rendering
without “ vain repetitions.” It can be done, if it is
ordered. It would not take many minutes. My
own notion would be — Te Deum, a few prayers.
Benediction. A quarter of an hour could cover it all,
if need be. Ever yours, Randall Winton.

Enclosuee

Archbishop Temple to Bishop Davidson.

51 Lennox Gardens, S.W., \9{h February 1897.

My deae Bishop oe Winchester, — I see nothing inap-
propriate in an outdoor service immediately in front of the west
entrance of St. Paul’s Cathedral.

For such a service there ought to be a very powerful choir
and carefully prepared music. Her Majesty would sit in her
carriage in the centre, immediately at the foot of the steps.
The Clergy and Choir would be on the steps and on the platform
close to the entrance. The service might consist of Psalms and
Prayers, and need not last more than twenty minutes. Stands
might be erected, and rooms in the houses on each side hired.

Such a ceremony in the very heart of the city would be an
expression of thanks to God not soon to be forgotten. I am, my
dear Lord, yours faithfully, F. Cantuar.^

1 The Bishop of London (Dr. Creighton) wrote to the same general
effect, hut added ; “ I was greatly struck at Moscow by the impressive-
ness of a crowd, waiting the arrival of the Emperor, wliile their thoughts
were silently turned to prayer by the sight of the ecclesiastics waiting
in the church porch. The spectacle itself was significant of religious
feelintr.”

1897]

AUTONOMY FOR CRETE

133

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Windsor Castle, 15th Feb. 1897. — I rejoice to
see that the Powers have agreed to the only possible
course. I hope there will be no delay, else we shall no
longer be able to prevent a real war between Greece
and Turkey. The conduct of the Greek Government
is most unfortunate ; but I fear the King can no
longer keep his people back.

The Admirals should act with promptitude.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

17th Feb. 1897. — . . . A Cabinet was held to-day.
... As to Crete, the discussion was anxious and pro-
longed. The Liberal Unionists were very Hellenic in
their sympathies ; and wished for an absolute aban-
donment of any policy hostile to the demands of
Greece. Lord James and Mr. Chamberlain specially
took this view. The Conservative Members of the
Cabinet were more concerned to avoid any action
which might break up the Turkish Empire and bring
on a general war. All, however, were anxious that
Crete should not be again put under Turkish rule,
though it might remain part of the Turkish Empire ;
in fact, that it should be autonomous in some form or
other. It was resolved, therefore, that as a prelimin-
ary to considering the question of applying the
blockade to Greece, the five Powers should be invited
to express their opinion upon this question of
autonomy, which accordingly has been done.

Lord Salisbury represented to Lord Lansdowne
that changing the names of regiments, without first
taking your Majesty’s pleasure, was a most improper
proceeding ; and that your Majesty had felt it to be so.
He expressed his extreme regret, and said it had been
done by inadvertence, partly owing to the great work
the War Office have lately had, partly to Lord
Wolseley’s illness. He promised to be careful that
it should not occur again.

134

INDIA AND TI-IE JUBILEE [chap, xin

Lord George Hamilton to Queen Victoria.

India Office, l&h Feb. 1897. — Lord George
Hamilton presents his humble dutjr to your Majesty.

In accordance with the Queen’s wishes, he has been
in communication with the Viceroy on the subject of
the attendance of native Princes at the forthcoming
Diamond Jubilee, and he (the Viceroy) has informed
them that they will be welcome, if in this year of
distress they find it possible or convenient to leave
their territories.

Lord Elgin is of opinion that the best native Chiefs
will be unable to come, and that the attendance here^
will not be as representative as would be wished. The'
whole payment of the cost of the reception of Nasrulla
Khan (the Ameer’s son) by the Government during his
stay in this country last summer will cause some
annoyance to those who now come and pay their own
expenses. These and other difficulties may prevent
as satisfactory a response to the enquiry of the Viceroy,
as would be obtained in times of less stress.

The arrangements for your Majesty’s escort are
proceeding satisfactorily, and it is suggested that in
addition to the escort of twenty native cavalry, there
should be a representative escort of twenty officers
and non-commissioned officers of the Imperial Service
Corps in the pay of the native Chiefs, but kept for
co-operative service with the Queen Empress’s Indian
troops.

A list is enclosed showing the Chiefs who would be
thus personally represented through an officer thus
selected from their troops. If the difficulties of
securing an adequate and satisfactory attendance of
native Chiefs should increase, Lord George would
venture to suggest for the Queen’s consideration that
this escort might be accepted as a substitute.

Lord Elgin’s present instructions are to persevere
in endeavouring to secure the attendance of the Chiefs
themselves, but if he were to fail with the more im-
portant, it would be difficult to reverse any arrange-

1897] GERMANY AND GREECE 185

ment made with the smaller Chiefs , Lord George would
therefore await her Majesty’s wishes on the subject.

House oe Commons, IQth Feb. — Lord George
Hamilton . . . has the honour to submit the enclosed
telegram from the Viceroy which confirms his sub-
mission of yesterday.^

An escort of forty native cavalry, each representing
a separate regiment and twenty feudatory States, will
be a very effective representation of the Queen
Empress’s authority.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 19i5^ Feb. 1897. — ^Again many
telegrams. William and his Government very violent
about Greece, France anxious to be cautious and not
to settle anything in a hurry, Russia, Austria, Italy,
as well as ourselves, against a blockade. Lord James
talked to me for some time after dinner. He is much
distressed at the present state of affairs in the East,
and shocked at the conduct of Germany, which Lord
Salisbury calls “ brutal.” Lord James praised Lord
Salisbury in the highest degree, and said the one wish
of the Cabinet was to support him in all his difficul-
ties, for he was so very wise and calm, and so dispas-
sionate, really at the present moment the only great
statesman in Europe.

The Empress Frederick to Queen Victoria.

loth February 1897.

My Beloved Mama, — I thought you might like
to read what Sophie says in the letter received last
night. How one longs for this nightmare to be
removed, and to be able to sleep and breathe again,

[Extract.] From Sophie.

Athens, ISth February [1897].

Things look black everywhere, it seems to me the danger is
imminent and cannot be averted. If not in Crete, there will be

’ In the course of the telegram the Viceroy said : “ Pear any ade-
quate representation of Chiefs in person hopeless. We shall obtain
through Imperial Service Corps excellent representatives of Native
State".”

186 EMPRESS FREDERICK ON GREECE [cuap, xin

fresh trouble in Macedonia, I am sure. Here people are sanguine
yye shall have Crete 1 If the Powers could only see for once that the
only way of preventing an insurrection in Macedonia is by letting
us have Crete. The insurrection in Macedonia has long been
preparing, and may break out any day 1 Nothing can prevent it.
The people’s exasperation against the Turks and hatred of them
has grown too strong. This was sure to come sooner or later, now
nothing can keep it down. The Powers might have helped some
time ago, but they did not, and the small States, despairing of any
other means, will try to help themselves. Of course it is mad and
dangerous to run such risks, especially for us, but people are
desperate. I think with fright and horror of the future. It
makes one mad to think of all the misery that may yet come I
Even if the Powers do not give us Crete, they must know that
never never will the Cretans rest, or the Island have peace, until
they are Greek.

This is a specimen of what is thought at Athens,
and, though no doubt the Powers do not think it
worth their while to enquire or to think about what is
thought in so small and insignificant a country, yet
England has always been humane and more large-
hearted in this respect, and has considered the claims
and the situation of the weak, and would perhaps not
willingly see a country that has made much progress
in the last thirty years, though it has still much to
learn, annihilated by the Turk, as no doubt the
German Government of to-day would. . . . Lord
Salisbury’s genius is particularly great in dealing with
difficulties, and perhaps he may extricate us all from
the deadlock into which things have drifted. . . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

19th Feb. 1897. — ^Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully renders his thanks
to your Majesty for allowing him to see the interesting
suggestions of the Empress. It is not necessary to
say that Lord Salisbury will reflect upon them care-
fully. As, however, the matter has been very maturely
considered, he respectfully lays before your Majesty
the difficulties which stand in the way of offering very
favourable terms to Greece at present.

1. The Powers are very angry with her. Germany

isoy] LORD SALISBURY’S COMMENT 137

shows it in the most brutal way ; but all without
exception feel the affront offered to them and the great
confusion caused by Greek action.

2. If Greece gained in the present or the near
probable future by her recent action, Servia, Bulgaria,
iVfontenegro would not stay quiet. They would be
provoked to move not only by the success of the
Greek manoeuvre, but still more because in the compe-
tition for power Greece is their chief rival ; and if
she is aggrandised they would claim “ compensa-
tion ” out of Macedonia, in order to put them again on
an even footing with Greece.

3. It seems perfidious on our part to mutilate
the Turkish Empire on this occasion ; for it was by
the advice of the Ambassadors that Turkey withdrew
her troops from Crete last autumn. If they had not
been withdrawn the Greek enterprise would have been
impossible. It seems rather hard to use this oppor-
tunity for depriving the Sultan even of the nominal
suzerainty over Crete.

If the news which has just come in is true, that the
Greeks are advancing upon Canea which we occupy,
the difficulty of favouring her will be still greater.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Hatfield House, Wth February 1897.

Dear Sir Arthur, — I think the reception of the
two Houses en masse would be far the best arrange-
ment, if H.M. is not afraid of the fatigue.

Would you kindly take H.M.’s pleasure in a matter
of trivial importance, but which I am forced to refer
to her ? The Spanish Ambassador has proposed on
behalf of the Queen Regent to confer some Order (I
am not certain which) upon my wife. I told him that
it was absolutely against rule, and could not be
distinguished in effect from conferring an Order on a
servant of the Crown ; that it was impossible in short,
both because she was a British subject, and because
she w°s the wife of a Minister. He has, however,

138 QUEEN’S ANXIETY [chap, xm

renewed the matter again and again, and insisted on
my referring it to the Queen.

I only trouble her because otherwise it will seem
rude to stop him. I wish the Queen to allow me to
say that I have referred it to her ; that she has replied
that it is absolutely against rule, and that the rule
could not be relaxed in this case without being broken
down altogether.^ I attach great importance to the
maintenance of the rule ; and I know that in this view
Lord Rosebery entirely agrees with me. Yours
very truly, Salisbury.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Windsor Castle, 21st Feb. 1897. — . . . I think
the King of Greece should now be told to recall his
ships, as Crete will be under the protection and guard
of the Powers, and he can surely tell his subjects that
he cannot resist the united Powers.

I wish you would desire Sir F. Lascelles to tell the
German Emperor from me, that I was astonished and
shocked at his violent language against the country
where his sister lives. He could surely have abstained
from such language.

Queen Victoria to Sir Charles Scott.^

[Cypher Telegram.]

23rd Feb. 1897. — Communicate following from me
to the King of Denmark. “ Feel exceedingly anxious
at state of affairs. Has not moment arrived when
your son can cause all further bloodshed to cease by
giving way with honour to the demonstrations of the
united Powers ? Fear nothing to be gained by
further armed resistance.”

1 Sir Arthur Bigge wrote on 23nd February on the Queen’s behalf
authorising Lord Salisbury to make such a statement as he desired to
the Spanish Ambassador, coupled with an assurance of her Majesty’s
appreciation of the Queen Regent’s “ most gracious suggestion.”

“ British Minister at Copenhagen.

THREE PRINCIPLES OP POLICY

189

isQr]

Sir Charles Scott to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

24i/i Feb. 1897. — ^Humble duty. Your Majesty’s
message was privately communicated to the King of
Denmark this morning. H.M. has just been here to
desire me to thank your Majesty for it.

He fully shares your Majesty’s grave anxiety, and
would gladly do anything in his power to assist to
stop bloodshed, but feels himself quite powerless to
exert influence on the King of Greece in political
matters^ on which, although the best of sons, H.M.
retains very strong independent views ; and therefore
the King of Denmark has for years always abstained
from every attempt to offer him advice on political
subjects. His Majesty proposes to write to your
Majesty himself more fully privately.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

24<th Feb. 1897. — . . . At the Cabinet to-day the
situation in respect to Greece was anxiously discussed.
It was felt to be necessary to assure the English
people that under no circumstances would the Cretans
be replaced under the direct Government of the Sul-
tan. Again it was necessary to assure the five other
powers that Crete would remain a portion of the
Ottoman Empire. And above all, it was necessary
to take some active steps to bring the present situation
to a close, lest rebellions in other parts of the Turkish
Empire should break out.

It was therefore resolved to telegraph this evening
to the Powers that we accepted the three principles
of autonomy, maintenance of integrity of Ottoman
Empire, and compulsion, if necessary, upon the
Greeks or Turks to compel them to withdraw their
troops from Crete.

The Ambassadors here seem to be favourable to
the declaration, and to regard our difflculties as at an
end. But the German makes difficulties ; and there
is still reason to fear that the Emperor William mav

140 SOUTH LONDON AND THE JUBILEE [chap, xiii

prove obstructive. Satisfactory telegrams from
Russia have been received, very severe against Greece.
The present attitude of the King of Greece is much
to be regretted. . . .

Sir Francis Knollys to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Maulbobough House, 25i/i February 1897.

My dear Bigge, — The Prince of Wales is very
glad indeed to hear that the Queen has consented to
return via London Bridge and the south side of the
river, and he feels sure it will have a most excellent
effect. He sees no reason why the line of route
should not be made public as soon as it has been
approved of by the Queen ; on the contrary, he thinks
the publication may prevent much inconvenience. . . .
Yours ever, Francis Knollys.

Extract from the Queen’s J ournal.

Windsor Castle, 1st March 1897. — ^The Arch-
bishop and Mrs. Temple, Cecilia D[owne], Lord Mount
Edgcumbe, Count Seckendorff, and Sir A. Bigge dined.
The Archbishop, who sat next to me, was very
pleasant, and told many anecdotes.

Received a telegram this morning, which has been
sent to Sir Philip Currie, and which to a certain extent
anticipated what I had cyphered to Lord Salisbury
about : “ The state of opinion in Parliament is such
that you should make the intimation as to withdrawal
of troops as the view of H.M.’s Government separately,
even if yom’ colleagues do not join. Explain to them
unofficially that such an attitude is necessary, in
order to prevent an explosion of sentiment which
might endanger the European concert.”

Bishop Davidson to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Faenham Castle, 1s( March 1897.

My dear Bigge, — What you say is most import-
ant. I fully agree that if the service outside St. Paul’s
is given out as the great objective of the Queen’s
visit to the City, the space available is inadequate, and

143

1897] RELIGION AND NATIONAL PAGEANT

the result would be disappointing. But my notion
was quite different. It was this —

1. That there should be great Cathedral and other
services everywhere throughout England on Sunday
20th, including as I should hope a service in St.
George’s, whereat the Queen would be present, even if
only for a short time (entering and leaving privately
by cloister door).

2. That quite apart from this set of thanksgiving
services of a great and formal sort, the Queen should
on Tuesday 22nd drive through London, an incident
in the drive being the brief service outside St. Paul’s
just to show that the religious side is not omitted in
the national pageant. Tliis ought to be made clear
beforehand, so as to show that it is not “ the Queen
going to St. Paul’s,” but “the Queen’s triumphal
procession through the capital of the Empire,” the
drive, or procession, including a stoppage at St. Paul’s,
where a Te Deum will be sung.

If the St. Paul’s service were regarded as the objec-
tive, it would be in my opinion unsatisfactory in all
ways, as the service itself would seem musically
inadequate to such an occasion.

3. I quite realise the difficulties as to weather.
But I don’t see how they are to be avoided. If the
day were to be really bad, the service, short in any
case, would have to be stiU further curtailed, but
clergy are well used (at funerals and elsewhere) to
braving the elements, even in winter, and this is in
June. It seems to me that the present proposal of a
route on both sides of the river gets rid of the difficulty
of its appearing that H.M. simply “ visits the city.”
She would really pass through regions of every sort,
under varying jurisdiction. It was for that reason
that I rejoiced to learn from the Duke of Connaught
of the provisional acceptance or approval of the
crossing over London Bridge, driving through the
magnificent broad streets of South London, and
returning by Westminster.

If I were now announcing the matter, I should lay

142

CHURCH SERVICES ON 20th JUNE [chap, xiii

primary stress on the great universal services of
20th June, Sunday, and then upon the Queen’s pro-
cession through London, making comparatively little of
St. Paul’s service, though I think it is essential that
there should be some such service to mark the religious
recognition of the national demonstration. , . . Ever
yours, Randall Winton.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

2nd March 1897. — ^Humbly submitted. The
Chief Rabbi has applied to Lord Salisbury to know
whether your Majesty approves of public services of
Thanksgiving being held on the occasion of the
Diamond Jubilee, and if so, on what date. Lord
Salisbury suggests that a similar reply to that of 1887
should be given, viz. ; “ Her Majesty fully approves
of a Public Thanksgiving being held by all religious

denominations within the British Empire on ,”

and Sir A. Bigge would humbly suggest that this should
be on “ Sunday 20th.”

If your Majesty approves, might one particular
hour be named for the services in the United Kingdom,
and that the same hour as the service at which your
Majesty attends ? Mr. Balfour, speaking on the sub-
ject last week, thought the idea of simultaneous
services with that of your Majesty’s own service would
be vastly appreciated by your Majesty’s subjects.
Perhaps 11 a.m. would be a similar hour if convenient
to your Majesty.

The reason for submitting the question now is
that notice should be sent to the Colonies,

Endorsed by Queen Victoria :

Quite approve. 11 should be the hour V. R, I.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Wak Office, 2nd March 1897.

My dear Bigge,^ — I have to acknowledge receipt
of your letter of the 27th intimating her Majesty’s
desire that H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught should
command the troops on the 22nd of June.

143

1897] THE DUKE OF CONNAUGHT

I have conveyed her Majesty’s commands to Lord
Wolseley, who at once replied that, so far as he was
concerned, he had only one wish, namely, to make
whatever arrangements might be most agreeable to
her Majesty. I am, my dear Bigge, yours sincerely,
Lansdowne.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

20 Arlington Street, S.W., mh March 1897. — ■
Lord Salisbury with his humble duty respectfully
acknowledges your Majesty’s note with respect to
Rafiuddin Ahmed.^ Lord Salisbury is fully acquainted
with his ability, and would gladly employ him if a
suitable opportunity occurred.

But he has made efforts in that direction, and has
unfortunately met with indications of that prejudice
which exists in your Majesty’s services and which
makes our position more difficult than the position of
other Governments who have races of different origin
to govern.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

Windsor Castle, ^th March 1897. — Sir Arthur
Bigge humbly begs to report that he saw Lord Lans-
downe this morning about the Duke of Connaught
becoming Adjutant-General.

The Secretary of State said he was very glad to
know your Majesty’s views on the subject, as, although
he had not yet begun to consider who should succeed
Sir Redvers Buller, it was important to him to know
that the Duke of Connaught would be a candidate for
the post. He made no difficulties, and promised to
talk to the Commander-in- Chief on the subject, and,
later on, to let Sir A. Bigge know what could be done.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

In the Train, 11th March 1897. — At a little before
six stopped at the junction of Noisy-le-Sec on the
Ceinture railway outside Paris. Here the President

' A native Indian barrister, who wished to enter the diplomatic
service. See vol. ii, pp. 566-508.

IM QUEEN AND PRESIDENT EAURE [chap, xin

of the Republic, M. Felix Faure, came into my saloon,
and was presented by Sir E. Monson.i I received the
President alone, and asked him to sit down. We had
some conversation, and he began by compliments
about my coming again to Prance, saying the pleasure
it gave the people to have me in their country. Then
I remarked that the present was a very anxious time,
that political affairs seemed very difficult, in which he
agreed. He was thankful the English and French
had been able to rescue the unfortunate 3,000 Turks.
He felt very much for Willy of Greece, whom he knew
well, but said it would not do to begin to dismember
Turkey. She might have avoided all, if some time
ago she had listened to the advice given her. M.
Faure is a tall, good-looking man, elderly, very gentle-
manlike, and pleasing, evidently sensible and quiet.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

12th March 1897. — ^Humble duty. Russia has
instructed Admiral to blockade Crete and the coasts
of Greece when the other Admirals are similarly
instructed. We are instructing our Admiral under the
same conditions to join in blockade of Crete and of
Bay of Volo ; but if Admirals shall propose blockade
of Piraeus on strategical grounds, he is to refer home
for further instructions before doing so.

The Empress Frederick to Queen Victoria.

? March 1897.

My beloved Mama, — I will try to calm dear Alix.®
I shall say the more united the Powers are in their
bullying action the more evident it must become to
the poor Greek people that their Sovereign and
Government have had to yield to a force majeure
which could not be resisted !

^ British Ambassador in Paris.

2 William was the King’s name as a Prince of Denmark, and
“ Willy ” was still used in the family.

3 The Princess of Wales (afterwards Queen Alexandra), sister to
the Kintr of Greece.

1897] POWERS BLOCKADE CRETE 145

What grieves Alix, and me too, so much is that
England, the Power so beloved and looked up to in
Greece, should have had to play so prominent a part
in these threatening actions and demonstrations, and
that in Greece it will create a terrible feeling of bitter-
ness against us for a long while, though I should think
the attitude of Germany must prove how England,
in contrast to her, has been moderating and not
fanning the flame against Greece. , . . Your devoted
and dutiful daughter, Victoria.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

16th March 1897.-— Humble duty. Cabinet to-day
decided to send the troops recommended by Admirals,
namely, 500 for each Power ; also they have pressed
on the Powers the absolute necessity for military
occupation of Island by 10,000 men. They have
offered that England will consent to these being
furnished by any of the other five Powers, or will
furnish them herself, but any blockade of Greek
mainland can be only joined in by England if the
military occupation of Crete is first provided for.

We do not believe, after this military occupation,
that Greece will continue to resist.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 17th March 1897. — George C[ambridge]
came to luncheon from Cannes, and directly afterwards
the Emperor of Austria arrived. He was most land
and amiable. I asked him to call me “ Du,” which
seemed to please him. He is distressed at the Cretan
troubles, but rejoices greatly at the union of the Great
Powers, and thinks there can be no general war.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Earl of Elgin.

CiMiEZ, l%th March 1897. — The state of Crete
causes the Queen great anxiety and is very compli-
cated. The Queen is most anxious (as is Lord
Salisbury and indeed all who have the welfare of her

146 QUEEN AND MOSLEM FEELING [chap, xni

great Indian Empire at heart) that the Mohammedans
should not think there is any feeling against them in
consequence of the dreadful events in Turkey. It is
and has been a hatred of race, and it has been most
unfortunate to have brought religion into this whole
question and thereby embittered everything so very
much. The Christians in Crete are as savage as the
Turks.

The Queen hopes the Viceroy will do what he
can to dispel any feeling of the kind she above
mentioned. . . .

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 22nd March 1897. — In the afternoon
drove with Victoria B[attenberg] and Louisa A[ntrim]
to Beaulieu or rather to La Bastide, where we visited
Lady Salisbury, who is staying there alone with her
daughter. She has been there for nearly two months,
and says she is much better, but she looks sadly
altered. Took tea there.

2Qth March . — Left directly after luncheon at three
with Beatrice for Cannes, which we reached in half an
hour. Bertie and Louise met us at the station, and
we drove to the Hotel du Parc, to visit the Cumber-
lands and the Queen of Hanover. We went into the
drawing-room, where we met the dear Queen, whom I
had not seen for nineteen years, and she expressed
much pleasure at seeing me again. Mr. and Mrs.
Gladstone came in for a moment, both looking much
aged, and she very shaky and much altered, but she
seemed delighted to see me. Mrs. Drew was with her
parents. I was rather tired, as I got out of railway
and carriages no less than twelve times.

1st April . — After luncheon I saw Lord Salisbury,
who was looking well, and said he was much better.

. We talked over the very critical state of affairs, and he
said he thought all might have been settled but for
the difficulties which had arisen in the Cabinet, viz.
the opposition of Mr. Chamberlain and Sir M. Hicks
Beach to doingf anything against Greece, which of

MUSIC FOR THE JUBILEE

147

1897]

course was annoying, as Lord Salisbury could not
press the matter for fear of breaking up the Cabinet.
The Duke of Devonshire and Lord Lansdowne had
stood by Lord Salisbury. France was behaving very
well. He expressed himself satisfied with affairs at
home, and thought Mr. Balfour had done very well this
year. The Education Bill having passed was a great
thing, etc.

Sir Arthur Sullivan to the Prince of Wales.

Villa Mathilde, St. Jean de ViLLEriiANCUE, 1st Afnl 1897.

Sir, — ^Your Royal Highness’ unwavering kind-
ness encourages me to approach you now for counsel
and assistance in a matter which I have very much at
heart. It has been my good fortune to be born and to
have made my career during her Majesty’s reign, and
my life’s work has been so directed that w&n the
musical history of the reign is chronicled, my name
should not be left out.

And now, Sir, I am eagerly desirous to associate
myself with the coming celebration, by receiving the
Queen’s command to compose something special for
this wondrous occasion. It would indeed be a labour
of love, and I should be proud to receive such a
recognition of the efforts I have made on behalf of
English music. Should such an idea be favourably
received by her Majesty, I would suggest that my
work take the form of a hymn tune, to be sung at the
service at St. Paul’s with military band accompani-
ment, or a short “ Domine salvam fac reginam ” ;
but I think I could reach the hearts of the people best
in a hymn tune, such a one as “ Onward, Christian
Soldiers.”

My career, Sir, is nearer its end than its commence-
ment. I have done many State and official commis-
sions ; but nothing in my career, and no State com-
mission could make me work with heart and soul as
the forthcoming glorious occasion would impel me to
do. May I hope for your Royal Highness’ help in
the matter ? Because without it I cannot venture to

TTT 1 1

148 HYMN TO BE SUNG ON 20th JUNE [chap, xin

look forward to the fulfilment of my heart’s desire. I
am, Sir, your Royal Highness’ faithful and devoted
servant, Arthue Sullivan.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

6th April 1897. — Sir Arthur Bigge humbly submits
that he saw Sir A. Sullivan to-day, who quite under-
stood your Majesty’s wish that any hymn sung out-
side St. Paul’s Cathedral should be set to a well-known
popular tune. But he said he had heard that this was
a German Chorale which he deplored. He suggests
that your Majesty might be pleased to ask Bishop
Walsham How to write a hymn for which he would
compose the music.

The Bishop and he have worked together in this
way before, and Sir A. Sullivan knows no one to whose
writing he would have greater pleasure in composing
than the Bishop of Wakefield. This hymn might be
sung in the churches on 20th June.^

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Berlin, Srd April 1897. — ^Am deeply grieved to
hear that poor Lady Lascelles has just died after
having been affected by a severe stroke of paralysis
yesterday.

Hope you have rest and fine weather, both of
which I am grievously in want of. William I. R.

[Telegram.] Sir Frank Lascelles to Queen Victoria.

Berlin, Uh April 1897. — ^Your Majesty’s sym-
pathy is a great solace to my afflicted family who,
thank God, are in good health. Lascelles.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

CiMiEZ, (?) 16th April 1897. — The Queen feels
more and more anxious about the state of affairs in
Crete and Greece, and thinks the Powers’ Ambassa-

^ This arrangement was made, and the hymn — ^words hy Bishop
Walsham How, music hy Sir Arthur Sullivan — ^was sung in churches

on 20+^ .TiiriA

149

1897] DIFFICULTIES OF THE CONCERT

dors really becoming ridiculous, and the “ Concert ”
is contemptible and very useless, to say the least.
It would seem that a “ Concert ” within the useless
Concert of six Powers will become at last inevitable.
Should not we propose to Russia, Italy, and France
to join [in] preventing this actual war between
Greece and Turkey taking place, but absolving the
others from any active part, if they would at least
not interfere to prevent it ? The Queen is sure it will
have to come to this.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

17th April 1897. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully acknowledges your Majesty’s letter.

The difficulty of making a combination of England,
Russia, France, and Italy is that Russia, up to this
time, has been most reluctant to part company with
Austria and Germany. France of course will not act
without Russia ; and England could not act for any
useful purpose with Italy alone.

The difficulty of the present position consists in
these two facts : 1. Austria and Germany will not
make a bridge of gold for Greece ; on the contrary,
they take pleasure in humiliating Greece. 2. Russia
will not, as at present advised, divide Europe into
two camps, leaving Austria and Germany on one
side. Consequently, no measure having for its object
to let down Greece easily has any present chance of
being accepted.

M. Hanotaux^ thinks the time is approaching
rapidly when we shall be able to detach Russia from
the Germans, and to act without them. It is quite
possible ; but when it happens a new set of difficulties
wiU arise. The Turks are much less amenable to
influence than they were, and will resist any attempt
to gratify Greek desires ; and especially will resist
any attempt to insist that the Turkish troops shall
retire. But without their retirement Crete cannot
be pacified. Nothing will remain but to force them
1 French Foreign Minister.

150 WAR BETWEEN TURKEY AND GREECE [chap, xiii

to retire. But who is to carry out such a measure ?
All the Powers have refused either to make suffieient
contrihutions of foree to carry it out ; or to allow any
one Power to do it. As long as they maintain this atti-
tude of refusing either to act themselves or to allow
anyone else to act, a deadlock must inevitably continue.

The Empress Frederick to Queen Victoria.

ScHLOss Friedhichshop, Ckonberg, 18th April 1897.

My beloved Mama, — I have just heard that
Turkey has declared war and seven Greek columns
crossed the Turkish frontier ! My alarm and anxiety
know no bounds, so far away ! Without much news,
without anyone who understands one’s feelings and
sympathises with one, it is dreadful. What Tino
and Sophie are going through makes me quite miser-
able, and I cannot help them or be with them and
share their troubles and dangers and perhaps make
myseK of a little use ! . . .

What my feelings are when I read of the encourage-
ment given to Turkey by Germany and the German
officers in the Turkish Army, you can imagine 1 The
three Emperors are all agreed and on the wrong tack,
and it grieves me bitterly to think that dear England
is so bound and so tied down that she cannot act as
she would wish. Alas, William’s personal hatred to
Greece and enmity to the King and whole Royal
family is well known everywhere, and does not im-
prove matters. The Turks are a fearful foe (not for
Russians or European troops) but for the Greeks.
They are like wild beasts in their cruelty, there is not
a Greek who has not some record in his family that
has been handed down from generation to generation
of this awful cruelty suffered at their hands ! There
will be no more sleep for me now for days ! . . .
Oh, if Fritz had been spared, all this would never
have happened ! Germany would have mediated and
appeased, and England could have gone hand in hand
with her ! ! . . . Ever your most dutiful and devoted
much distressed daughter, Victoria.

1897J THE QUEEN AND SARAH BERNHARDT

151

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

La Bastide, Beaulieu, 18 th April 1897.

Dear Sir Arthur, — I deeply feel for the Queen’s
anxiety. But the matter has passed now beyond the
provinee of diplomaey. War having been duly
declared in all form, neibher side can make overtures
for peace until the fortune of arms has been tried :
they would hold themselves dishonoured in the eyes
of their own subjects if they did so.

I do not think any of the Royal Family are in any
danger. The Duke of Sparta is in the position of a
General, and therefore exposed to little personal risk.
The King, if really pressed at Athens, will always be
able to take refuge on board H.M.S. Nile. Yours
very truly, Salisbury.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 19th April 1897. — Sixteen years since my
kind friend Lord Beaconsfield died.

After luncheon saw Lord Salisbury. I expressed
to him my great anxiety at the state of affairs, and
stated that I thought it would become necessary for
us to take action regardless of Germany (who has been
behaving so ill), in order to stop further bloodshed.
Lord Salisbury said the time was coming when we
should have to break away from Germany and Austria,
but not quite yet. He feared Greece would be
defeated, which we could not allow. I said it was
important we should work well with Russia, which
he is also anxious should be the case.

22nd April. — ^At half-past six the celebrated and
famous actress Sarah Bernhardt, who has been act-
ing at Nice and is staying in this hotel, performed a
little piece for me in the drawing-room at her own
request. The play was called Jean Marie, by Adrien
Fleuriet, quite short, only lasting half an hour. It is
extremely touching, and Sarah Bernhardt’s acting
was quite marvellous, so pathetic and full of feeling.
She appeared much affected herself, tears rolling

152 DEFEAT OF THE GREEKS [chap, xiii

down her cheeks. She has a most beautiful voice,
and is very graceful in all her movements. The story
is much the same as that of “Auld Robin Gray.”
The two who acted with her were also excellent,
particularly the one who took the part of Jean Marie.
When the play was over, Edith L. presented Sarah
Bernhardt to me, and I spoke to her for a few moments.
Her manner was most pleasing and gentle. She said
it had been such a pleasure and honour to act for me.
When I expressed the hope that she was not tired, she
answered, “ Cela m’a reposee.”

23rd April. — ^Beatrice, when I came home, brought
me the sad news of the sudden death of the Dowager
Duchess of Bedford,^ which I am very grieved at. We
were children together, and she had been one of my
bridesmaids as well as my Mistress of the Robes and
extra Lady-in-Waiting. Am very distressed for poor
Lady Ermyntrude [Malet].

We were much shocked to hear that an attempt
had been made on the life of the King of Italy, the
man jumping on top of his carriage and trying to
stab him. He was knocked down and at once seized,
the King escaping unhurt.

24sth April , — Before dinner received the distressing
news of the defeat of the poor Greeks. It makes me
very unhappy. Telegraphed to Lord Salisbury to
press that something should be done. He answered
that he intends proposing a Conference at Paris, of
the Ambassadors, to agree on the terms of an armis-
tice. Peel so distressed for poor Vicky, Sophy, and Alix.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

La Bastide, Beaulieu, 24!thApril 1897.

Dear Sir Arthur, — ^I took yesterday morning the
only course in the direction of pacification which it
was possible for me to take. I proposed to Russia to
hold a conference of Ambassadors at Paris to propose
terms of peace to the belligerents, and I informed the

‘ Widow of the 9th Duke ; mother of the present Duke, and of
Lady Ermyntrude Malet.

153

1897] PROPOSED CONFERENCE IN PARIS

other Courts of the proposal. I am now waiting for
the answer. This is the utmost that can by any
possibility be done. The belligerents may listen to
the advice of the six Powers, if the Powers can be
induced to give it. But what chance is there that the
representations of England alone addressed to Turkey
will induce the Sultan to recall the General and the
army who are winning victories in the plains of
Pharsalia ? For two years the Sultan has been taught
by public denunciation to look on England as his
bitterest enemy. It is impossible she should retain any
influence over him. The slight, the only, chance we
have of affecting the present conflict is through the
action of the other Powers. In short, to put it plainly,
Russia is the only Power that can speak to Turkey
in the language of command, because Russia is the
only Power that has a large army upon his frontier.

I send you a telegram I have just received from
Monson, which will show you that even France is very
doubtful of being able to persuade Russia to act. . . .

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Salisbury.

{Copy^ CiMiEZ, 2ith April 1897.

Dear Lord Salisbury, — ^The Queen desires me to
thank you for your letter of this evening, and to say how
cordially she approves of your proposal to Russia for a
conference of the Powers at Paris ; indeed, H.M. con-
siders that nothing better could have been suggested !

The Queen would be glad to know what you think
of the advisability of her telegraphing to the Emperor
of Russia (I suppose through Sir N. O’Conor), appealing
to him to exert his influence to terminate the war.
H.M. is prepared to do so with your concurrence.
Yours very truly, A. Bigge.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

[25th April 1897.] — I think that a message from the
Queen to the Tsar urging him to do what he could
for the restoration of peace would be very valuable
just now.

154,

QUEEN APPEALS TO TSAR [chap, xiii

1 have received the enclosed from Monson, and am
telegraphing to offer [to] join France and Russia, as the
original guarantors of Greece after Navarino, in urging
an armistice at Athens and Constantinople. It seems
useless to wait for the assent of Germany. Yours
very truly, Salisbury.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 25th April 1897. — Heard from Georgie
that May had given birth to a little girl,^ both doing
well. It is strange that this child should be born on
dear Alice’s birthday, whilst the last was on the
anniversary of her death.

[Telegram.^ Mr. Egerton^ to Queen Victoria.

Athens, 25th April 1897. — H.R.H. the Crown
Princess is deeply touched by your Majesty’s loving
sympathy. She is terribly worried and anxious, and
tries to keep up, though low-spirited. Egeeton.

Queen Victoria to the Emperor of Russia.
{Cypher Telegram.]

25th April 1897. — I most earnestly appeal to you to
use all your powerful influence to bring about an armis-
tice and terminate this disastrous war which, I am sure,
must distress you as much as it does me. I earnestly
trust that you will be able to agree to Lord Salisbury’s
proposal for joint action with you and France.

Sir Nicholas O'Conor to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

21th April 1897.—. . . I had the honour to hand
the Queen’s message to the Emperor at seven o’clock
and his Majesty said that he fully shared the Queen’s
desire to bring the war, which distressed him greatly,
to an end. His Majesty had no objection to a con-

‘ Now the Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood.

2 British Minister in Athens ; afterwards Sir Edward Egerton, and

Amh'’ adnr in Bnmp,

1897] QUESTION OF AN ARMISTICE 155

ference with the Ambassadors at Paris, but he sug-
gested that it would perhaps be more efficacious if the
Cabinets of England, Russia, and France, as guarantee-
ing Powers, considered directly between them the
terms of peace, while at the same time using their
influence to bring about an armistice. His Majesty
welcomed the idea of the three Powers working to-
gether for the re-establishment of peace, and authorised
me to telegraph in the above sense to the Queen.^

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

La Bastide, Beaulieu, 2 'tth April 1897.

Dear Sir Arthur, — I have telegraphed to the
Admiralty and to Mr. Egerton about the Nile.

The Greeks are a contemptible race, and I have no
doubt will turn upon the King and blame him for the
policy which they themselves, the Greek mobs, forced
upon him. I ho^e they will be too mueh cowed to
proceed to extremities. Yours very truly, Salisbury.

The Queen’s telegram to the Emperor of Russia
appears to have produced a very salutary effect.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Mr. Egerton.

27th April 1897. — Queen wishes you to know that
the Nile was ordered to Phalerum in consequence of
her suggestion that a man-of-war should go to Pirseus
in case of any danger to Royal Family. Bigge.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Beaulieu, 28th April 1897. — ^Lord Salisbury’s
humble duty to your Majesty. He has accepted the
Emperor’s proposal, and is waiting for the Emperor
to indicate the mode of consultation. M. Hanotaux
seems quite willing. Lord Salisbury expects to see
someone from him to-morrow morning in Paris. He
hopes to be in London to-morrow evening.

The doctor is encouraging with respect to Lady
Salisbury’s journey.

1 The Queen described thi? in her Journal as “ a very satisfactory

15S

QUEEN’S ADVICE TO GREECE [chap, xni

Queen Victoria to the King of the Hellenes.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Srd May 1897. — As a true aud aflectionate friend,
I would most earnestly urge that unless the Greek
Government recalls Col. Vassos and his force, and
expresses its willingness to be guided by the advice of
the Powers, it will be impossible for the Powers to
intervene or mediate. Even those most favourable
to Greece could not do so.^

Queen Victoria to the Princess of Wales.
[Cypher Telegram.]

8rd May 1897. — ■! have sent the following earnest
appeal ® to Willy, and I entreat you to support it as
the only possible means of obtaining an armistice.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 3rd May 1897. — Saw Lord
Salisbury. Talked of many matters, the chief topic
being the terrible war between Greece and Turkey.
He said nothing could be done, as Russia had backed
out, Nicky having evidently yielded to Mouravieff
and pressure from Germany. France could not act
without Russia.

5th May. — Beatrice brought me in a telegram at
breakfast from Sir E. Monson, saying it was feared
poor Sophie Alen^on had perished in a great fire at
Paris. Afterwards she read me some details in the
papers of the terrible catastrophe,^ which is more
horrible than can be described, and has cost many
lives amongst the highest in Parisian society. Re-

^ The main portion of the draft is in Lord Salisbury’s handwriting,
but the Queen has herself written, in pencil, the introductory words
down to “ urge that."

“ The reference is to the above telegram to King George (“ Willy ”).

® It was at a Charity Bazaar, held in a haU in toe rue Jean-Goujon,
that the fire broke out, in a street representing Old Paris shops, flUed
with stallholders and visitors, mostly belonging to aristocratic families.
The whole building was reduced to ashes in a few minutes ; upwards of
200 persons were burnt to death, including the Duchesse d’Alen 9 on,
sister of the Empress of Austria, and many others were seriously
injured and subsequently succumbed.

1897] CHARITY BAZAAR CATASTROPHE 157

ceived a heartbroken telegram from poor Alengon
announcing that his hien-aimee Sophie had lost her life
in yesterday’s fearful catastrophe. Later on I had
another from Sir E. Monson saying her remains had
been identified. It is too shocking to think of. Leila
E[rroll], Louisa Buccleuch, Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain,
Sir F. and Lady Edwards, Lord Bagot, Sir H. Ewart,
and Mr. Muther dined.

Mr. Chamberlain talked a great deal about South
Africa and the Colonies, and hoped there would be no
war, but that the state of affairs was anxious. He
thought Mr. Rhodes, and still more Mr. Jameson, came
the best out of the South African Committee enquiry,
but that the Germans had behaved very ill. He was
sure that the Transvaal would ultimately come back
to us, as it could not help doing so, whatever we might
wish. It was to be hoped this would happen peace-
fully and not by a war.

[TiUgramme.]^ President Faure to Queen Victoria.

Paris Elys^e, 5 Mai 1897. — Je remercie votre
Majeste des temoignages de si vive sympathie qu’elle
veut bien m’adresser. La France sera touchee de la
part que votre Majesty veut bien prendre au deuil si
cruel qui vient dc nous frapper. Felix Faure.

[Cypher Telegram.] Mr. Egerton to Queen Victoria.

5ih May 1897. — Humble duty. Following answer
received from the King of Greece to your Majesty’s
telegram of May 3rd.

“ I am extremely thankful to the Queen for the
kind interest which her Majesty shows me at this
moment. Her Majesty’s wish to see recalled Colonel
Vassos and his men has already had its beginning, as
he and a part of his people have been recalled. For
the rest, I am convinced this will be done little by
little, as we have to deal with a very excitable public,
and must be very careful.But I trust, if the Powers
would intervene spontaneously between the two
countries, this would strengthen the decision of the

168 DEATH OF DUC D’AUMALE [chap, xiii

Government in doing what is necessary in order to
restore order and peace.”

The Princess of Wales to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

6th May 1897. — Thanks so much. Just received
this from Greece dated yesterday. “ Had already
acted on the Queen’s advice though without result,
as to-day again terrible battle at Velestino, Turks
repulsed, fear to-morrow they will attack Tino,i God
help us.”

Dearest Mama, can you and Emperor of Russia
now insist on armistice or peace ? Do not allow them
to be crushed entirely by overwhelming forces, as they
have taken the first steps by recalling Vassos. Now
the Powers must for humanity’s sake step in to save
them from utter ruin and revolution at Athens. No
time must be lost.

Extract from the Queen* s Journal.

Windsor Castle, '7th May 1897. — When Beatrice
came to breakfast she again brought in some very sad
news, a telegram from Clementine,^ saying : “ Mon
bien-aim4 frere Aumale est mort cette unit d’une
attaque de coeur. Plains-moi.” He died in Sicily,
at his place near Palermo, and from a later Reuter
telegram it seems that it was from the result of the
shock of hearing of poor Sophie Alengon’s tragic death.
Dreadfully sad ; and I am greatly grieved. He was
a most charming, very well-informed, clever, large-
minded, and agreeable man. He wrote very well, and
was so kind and generous to his whole family, by
whom he was greatly beloved. He had been planning
that all the members of his family, old and young,
were to assemble at Chantilly to celebrate Clementine’s
eightieth birthday. And now ! She was talking so
much about it, when I saw her lately at Cimiez.

' Duke of Sparta, afterwards King Constantine of the Hellenes.

^ Princess Augustus of Coburg, daughter of King Louis Philippe.
Due d’ Aumale was her brother, and Due d’Alenpon her nephew.

1897] QUEEN’S TELEGRAM TO KAISER

159

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 7th May 1897. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty gratefully acknowledges your
Majesty’s kind and gracious note. He hopes that the
King of Greece is now in no real danger ; and that
the dynasty is safe. The Greeks seem to feel that the
three Emperors, who are not friendly to them, will be
made still more bitter if a republic is established in
Greece. But the conduct of the Greeks in refusing to
ask for mediation is fatuous.

The disaster at Paris is an overwhelming horror.
In all its circumstances it is more terrible than any-
thing which has happened in this century.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Windsor Castle, 7th May 1897. — By this tele-
gram it is clear that every hour increases the necessity
for an armistice, and I am much inclined to send
following telegram to Emperor William, who has
always shown respect for my advice : “ For the sake
of humanity an armistice must be proposed without
delay, or thousands of lives will be sacrificed. Do
what you can to urge the Powers to propose this for
both contending parties. You have always expressed
great regard for my advice ; let me therefore urge
this on you.”

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

7th May 1897.— Humble duty. Entirely concur in
your Majesty’s proposed telegram to German Emperor.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

ScHLOSS, Berlin, ?>th May 1897. — The Powers
have arranged that the proposal of an armistice must
be begged for by Greece with the promise that she
will unconditionally submit to the verdict of the
Powers before they intervene ; a conditio sine qua
non is that Greece immediately recalls her troops

160 KAISER’S “RUDE” REPLY [chap, xm

from Crete, and accepts the fact of the autonomy of
that island. Until Greece has expressed her -will to
fulfil the above-named conditions, intervention is out
of the question.

I think the Russian Government most fit to take
the lead in this matter. William I. R.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 9,th May 1897, — ^More letters
came in, sent by M. de Courcel, about this horrible
tragedy. Everything one hears makes it worse.
Of poor Sophie’s remains only the head was found, and
that was much disfigured.

Received a rude answer from William, sent en clair,
whilst my telegram was in cypher. Saw Sir A. Bigge,
and told him to go at once to Lord Salisbury about it.

Qth May. — Had another urgent appeal from poor
little Sophy, and answered that nothing could be done
by us alone, that Greece must yield to the conditions
of the Powers. Telegraphed also in the same sense
to the King. Lord Salisbury let me know it was
impossible to do anything, as Germany and Austria
were obstinate and virtually commanded the situation,
which is most irritating.

Mr. Buchanan ^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.

[Cypher Telegram.]

8th May 1897. — Following received from the
Empress Frederick for the Queen. “ Things in
Greece worse than ever ! Think intervention abso-
lutely necessary without waiting for it to be asked for
by Greece. No time should be lost 1 Could not
England offer the King to assist in reorganising ? ”

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir A. Bigge.

Foreign OmcE, 9i/i May 1897 [noon).

My dear Sir Arthur. — If I decypher the tele-
gram aright, the Empress Frederick urges that Eng-

1 Charge d’ Affaires at Darmstadt ; afterwards Sir George Buchanan,
and British Ambassador in St. Petersburg at the time of the Russian
Revolution.

161

1897] QUEEN URGES GREECE TO YIELD

land should help King George in reorganising his
army. But this would be joining in the war. You
would find very few people in this country whose
Hellenic sympathies would carry them to this ex-
tremity.

I understand that both Germany and Austria
insist that Greece shall consent to recall the troops
from Crete, and to defer generally to the unanimous
advice of the Powers ; and that until she does this
they will not join in the mediation.

I urged very strongly on the French Government
that we should, in conjunction with Russia, take the
first steps towards intervention, leaving Germany
and Austria outside, for the moment. The Emperor
of Russia proposed the same thing himself about the
same time. But he afterwards withdrew it ; and
France has most energetically resisted it. Inter-
vention therefore without the consent of Germany
and Austria is not difficult, it is quite impossible.
Our isolated action, avowedly not supported by the
rest, would not have the faintest effect on the Sultan’s
action ; and intervention simply means persuading
the Sultan to arrest, and ultimately to withdraw
his army.

What the Empress Frederick asks for is impossible
and unattainable until her son consents. Yours very
truly, Salisbury.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Egerton.

[Cypher Telegram.}

(?) 9th May 1897. — ^Please convey following to
King of Greece from Queen :

“You know how deeply I feel for you, your
children, and your country. I have done all in my
power to obtain easier terms for you but without
success. But under the sad circumstances I see no
alternative but to accept the terms laid down by the
Powers, which make a sine qua non of immediate recall
of your troops from Crete. For the sake of humanity
I now urge you to yield. I grieve for you all.”

162 GREECE YIELDS— KAISER SATISFIED [chap, xin

[Cypher Telegram.] Mr. Egerton to Sir Arthur Bigge.

lOth May 1897. — The King told me to convey his
Majesty’s thanks to the Queen for her Majesty’s
message and constant acts of kindness.

In answer his Majesty says orders have been given
for the withdrawal from Crete of troops, and autonomy
of Island will be recognised ; and his Majesty hopes
that Commanders of blockading force will be speedily
ordered to allow Greek vessels to go to Crete to bring
the troops away, and that there be no delay in
mediation to prevent further bloodshed in Thessaly.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

20 Ablington Street, S.W., 10 th May ISOY.

My dear Sir Arthur, — Orders are being sent
to-night to Admiral Harris to give to Hellenic ships
access to Crete for the purpose of bringing away
Greek troops.

We understand that the Greek Government have
very much altered their proposed note in order to
meet the views of the Emperor William ; but we do
not yet know whether in fact he is satisfied.

The worst part of it is that neither he nor, I believe,
the Sultan are willing to consent to an armistice until
the preliminaries of peace are settled. And whether
that will be a rapid process or no, I cannot predict.
Yours very truly, Salisbury.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 13th May 1897. — Received
another grandiloquent telegram, also en clair, from
William.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

s.s. D’XJrville, 18th May 1897. — With reference to
your telegram of the 8th. I am happy to be able to
communicate to you that, after the King and the
Government had begged for my intervention through
Sophy, and after having officially notified to my
Minister and again through Sophy to me personally

1897] AUSTRALIA AND FEDERATION 163

that they unconditionally accepted the conditions I
had proposed, I have ordered Baron v, Plessen to take
the necessary steps to restore peace in conjunction
with the representatives of the other Powers.
William I. R.

Lord Brassey ^ to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Melbourne, 30th March
1897. — . . . Attention is for the time being centred
on the Convention now sitting in Adelaide. The
telegram received from the Queen Empress was
received with enthusiasm by the delegates. It seems
probable that Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania,
and Queensland will enter into a federation for defence,
and later form a Zollverein.

Mr. Barton of New South Wales will perhaps
be the first Premier of the Federation. Fie is
able, moderate, and loyal to the Empire. The
invitation, received in the name of the Queen
Empress, to the several Premiers of Australasia
has been highly appreeiated by the people of this
colony. , .. .

In conclusion Lord Brassey desires to express the
earnest hope that the fullest measure of health and
strength may be granted to your Majesty through
the memorable Diamond Jubilee, which will be most
loyally celebrated in Victoria.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 18/^ May 1897. — Beatrice
brought me the sad news that the dear Duchess of
Atholl 2 had passed away. It is too grievous, she was
so strong and active that I hoped she had still many
years to live. She looked more like sixty than eighty-
two, and was so full of life and fun. I had known her
since the year 1842, when we first went to Scotland,
and got to know her well when we stayed at Blair
in ’44. In ’52 she became Mistress of the Robes till

1 Governor of Victoria, 1895-1900 ; created Earl Brassey, 1911.

- Widow of the 0th Duke.

TTT — 1 2

164 PRECAUTIONS FOR JUBILEE [chap, xm

December of that year. Then in ’54 she became
Lady-in-Waiting, which she remained up to now.
She is a very great loss to me, as she was such a true
friend.

Heard the good news that hostilities had ceased,
owing to the interposition of Nicky.

[Copt/.] Sir Arthur Bigge to Sir Matthew Bidley.

WiNDSon Castle, 20ift May 1897.

My dear Sir Matthew, — ^Would it be possible
to do anything to try and guard against accidents
happening on the 22nd June through overcrowding
the roofs of the poorer classes of houses, especially
on the south side of the river ? Naturally people
will endeavour to realise as much profit as they can
by letting seats and standing room on the tops of
their houses, and one hears gloomy forebodings of
what may happen in consequence.

I cannot imagine anything which would more
distress the Queen than any accident, and if an official
assurance could be conveyed to her Majesty that every
possible step will be taken to guard against such an
eventuality it would cause great satisfaction to her
Majesty. Yours very truly, Arthur Bigge.

Sir Matthew Bidley to Sir Fleetwood Edwards.
Confidential. home Depabtment, 23rd May (1897).

My dear Sir Fleetwood, — . . . I know from
Bigge that the Queen is anxious to know that every-
thing that is possible is being done to prevent accidents
from the insecurity of the roofs and parapets of the
poorer houses along the royal Jubilee route. Pray
assure the Queen that the Chief Commissioner of
Police is in constant communication with the officers
of the London County Council on the subject, and that
every possible care is being taken. There are no such
direct legal powers in regard to this point as exist in
regard to stands or balconies, but no precaution shall
be omitted which the watchfulness and anxiety of all
the authorities can take. Yours truly, M. W. Ridley.

1897]

HER MAJESTY’S BIRTHDAY

165

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoeal, 24!th May 1897. — A fine morning.
Dear Beatrice came in to me early, as usual on this
day. My poor old birthday again came round, and it
seems sadder each year, though I have such cause for
thankfulness, and to be as well as I am, but fresh sorrow
and trials stiU come upon me. My great lameness, etc.,
makes me feel how age is creeping on. Seventy-eight
is a good age, but I pray yet to be spared a little
longer for the sake of my country and dear ones.

Before breakfast the little children, Lenchen and
Beatrice, gave me flowers and took me to my birth-
day table, which was covered with presents. I
received some lovely things. Beatrice gave me such
a pretty water-colour sketch, done by herself, of the
place in front of the Monastery at Cimiez, bringing in
the old cross. Innumerable land letters and telegrams.
Got out very late with Lenchen, Beatrice, and the two
eldest children. On coming home the telegrams began
to pour in in a most extraordinary manner, and this
continued till late at night, not only from all relations,
connections, and friends, but from all sorts of indi-
viduals, Public Bodies, Societies, etc.

25th May. — Leopold of Belgium arrived about
twelve, and I went down to meet him in the drawing-
room. He came specially to congratulate me on my
birthday ; and I had begged him to come to-day
instead of yesterday, as there was so much to do. He
brought me a most splendid erection of orchids, one
can hardly call it a bouquet, which he had brought
from Belgium. After luncheon sat talking some time
with him on various subjects. He then took leave,
and was going on to Glasgow.

Sir William Baillie-Hamilton^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Colonial Oite-ice, 28th May 1897,

My deae Bigge, — I have communicated to Mr.
Chamberlain the purport of our conversation on

1 'T'hpn PhiA-P flolnni 1 OflRoo

166 JUBILEE HONOURS [chap, xm

Wednesday respecting Lord Roberts’ appoint-
ment.i

Mr. Chamberlain has since seen Lord Lansdowne,
who he understands is in communication with H.R.H.
the Duke of Connaught on the subject ; and under
these circumstances it appears to him that it is not
necessary for him to take any further action in the
matter at present.

But he desires to add that he attaches the utmost
importance to the character of the reception given to
these Colonial troops. They represent the forces of
the Empire outside India and the United Kingdom.
It is most desirable that the Colonies should be en-
couraged to increase these forces, and to identify them
with the general defences of the Empire ; and H.M.’s
Government are most anxious that their visit to this
country at the expense of the Colonies should be recog-
nised by the Home authorities as a most significant
event which may have large consequences in the future.

It is in this view, and not on their intrinsic merits
or their numbers, that Mr. Chamberlain has asked the
War Office to designate as their Honorary Commander
some Officer of high rank and widely appreciated repu-
tation. Yours very truly, W. A. Baillie-Hamilton.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Hatfield, 5th June 1897. — Lord Salisbury with
his humble duty respectfully submits (in another box)
his list of honours proposed for your Majesty’s Dia-
mond Jubilee. He is conscious that they are volumin-
ous. It could hardly be otherwise, the occasion is so
unique and the pressure from all sides is so great.
But he has tried, successfully, to keep the hereditary
honours within moderate compass. The baronetcies
are not more numerous than they were at the Jubilee
ten years ago ; and the peerages are less numerous.

There are only two points to which your Majesty’s
attention ought specially to be drawn. They concern

1 As the Commander of the Colonial forces coming to attend the
Di mnnd .Tiihilpp

*1

'S)~*;F. A-^bW

SliPi»«ji^

-y”!!- J*i€«

1897] P.C. FOR COLONIAL PREMIERS 167

the admission to your Majesty’s Privy Council. At
the instance of Mr. Chamberlain Lord Salisbury has
submitted to your Majesty that eleven Colonial Prime
Ministers should be admitted to the Privy Council.
The proposal is no doubt without precedent ; but the
occasion is quite unique ; and the admission to the
Privy Council of the Colonial Prime Ministers is
singularly appropriate to it. Nothing can mark the
character and results of youi’ Majesty’s happy reign
more conspicuously than that the statesmen who
administer the vast territories which have been con-
verted into civilised and powerful communities during
your Majesty’s reign, should take their seats at your
Majesty’s Council Board. Lord Salisbury therefore
respectfully and strongly urges on your Majesty the
acceptance of this proposal.

There is another matter, of less importance, con-
nected with the Privy Council. Lord Salisbury is
informed that your Majesty’s objection to the admis-
sion of Ml’. G. Watts to the Privy Council that he
makes pictures on order for private customers is no
longer true ; and that he has given this practice up.
But the reason why Lord Salisbury, with great respect,
submits this matter again to your Majesty’s con-
sideration is that he is accused of never submitting to
your Majesty any honour in favour of Art ; and that
many people are alienated by this consideration. Lord
Salisbury knows no selection by which a proper trib-
ute to Art could be more innocuously paid ; and
therefore he ventures to submit the recommendation
again for your Majesty’s gracious decision.^

The Earl of Aberdeen to Queen Victoria.

Car Victoria, near Quebec, 5th June 1897. — , . .
Mr. Laurier sailed for England from New York this
morning in the steamship Lucania. The visit of the
Canadian Premier in response to the invitation of

* The recommendation was not approved, as the Queen maintained
her view of the unsuitability of rewarding success in Art by a Privy
Councillorship.

168 THE CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER [chap, xiii

your Majesty’s Government has evoked, very natur-
ally, a large amount of interest, and it is regarded as a
compliment to the whole country. It is viewed with
the more satisfaction because of the general feeling
that Mr. Laurier’s personal qualifications for the part
he is thus called upon to fulfil on this unique occasion
are of no mean order. This impression, Lord Aber-
deen would venture to add, may be regarded as well
founded. Mr. Laurier is a man of high personal
character and reputation. He has also an air of cul-
ture and distinction, and not only so, but he seems to
possess a faculty of attracting in a remarkable degree
a feeling of personal and even affectionate regard from
a wide circle of people.

Madame Laurier also is a very agreeable person,
and has filled her position as wife of the Premier with
grace and dignity. Although of course spealdng
English with ease and fluency, it may be said, at least
of Madame Laurier, that, as in the case of most French
Canadians, opportunities of conversing in French
seem to be appreciated.

Lord Aberdeen would beg to mention that he had
to-day at Quebec the pleasure of inspecting and
bidding farewell to the Canadian contingent of the
Jubilee representation of Colonial Forces. The Cana-
dian contingent numbers 200. . . .

Extract from the Queen's Journal,

Balmoral, Ibth June 1897. — Fine morning, but
rather cold. Out with Lenchen and went to Clachen-
turn, where I got out to see good Annie Macdonald.
She was a good deal upset at the thought of not being
able to return with me to Windsor. She is, I fear,
very ill and very weak, but one must still hope she
may regain her strength and possibly, though I
scarcely think so, come to Windsor to direct things
and show where they are. The trouble about arrang-
ing things for the Jubilee still continues.

It is nine years to-day since our beloved Fritz was
taken. What a calamity it was for the whole of

1897] THE PRINCE AND THE JUBILEE 169

Europe, as well as for his own country ! One feels it
now more and more.

The Prince of Wales to Queen Victoria.

Mahlbobough House, 19th June 1897.

My dearest Mama, — I cannot describe how
touched I am by your great kindness in appointing me
on the occasion of your Jubilee Grand Master of your
great and distinguished Order of the Bath. I feel it as
a very high honour, and having succeeded dear Papa
after an interval of so many years.

I am so glad that you made a point of making
Edward Weimar a Field-Marshal, as I know how
greatly he will appreciate it. The honours you intend
conferring on my gentlemen have greatly gratified me,
and will please them immensely.

These gales of wind are most unfortunate ; Walde-
mar who has just arrived from Flushing said it was
terrific, and hopes Vicky will not attempt to leave till
it subsides.

I have seen Sir F. Edwards and mentioned several
matters to him, which I shall be delighted to under-
take in your name so as to save you fatigue, such as
receiving Addresses and distributing the medals to
the Indian and Colonial troops, which I will gladly
do in your name. Hoping to see you on Monday,
I remain, your devoted and affectionate son, Bertie.

Bishop Davidson to Queen Victoria.

Fabnhajm Castle, 19th June 1897.

Madam, — Although I am aware how your Majesty
must at present be overwhelmed with the multitude
of responsible duties and anxieties which the occasion
brings, I should fail to do justice to my own feelings
did I not ask your Majesty to let me, with my humble
duty, add one more to the loyal felicitations of to-
morrow’s great anniversary.

I have to-day been reading afresh the copy your
Majesty allowed me ten years ago to make of the
journal written by your Majesty on 20th June 1837,
and the pathos and deep significance of its connection

170 BISHOP DAVIDSON’S rEDlCilAlIONS [chap, siii

with the celebration of the next few days are such
as can I think be rarely equalled in history.

The thanlcsgivings which will to-morrow go up to
God from millions are no artificial or conventional
thing, and I suppose it is rare indeed in such national
tharjcsgivings that the warmest and the hearties t should
be evoked from those who have the fullest means of
knowledge, and who are able therefore to give to their
prayers and thanksgivings a more personal colour.
Such is, however, the fact, beyond all question, among
those who have been allowed to serve your Majesty in
a direct and personal way at Windsor and elsewhere.

To myself this coming week is fraught with
memories so prized, of all your Majesty’s goodness to
me for more than fourteen years, that I have never in
my life felt anything to be more real, more inspiring,
more natural or more “ right ” in the truest sense than
the glad jubilations with which the heart of the whole
people is full to overflowing.

That our Father in Heaven may for many years to
come preserve your Majesty to reign over a grateful,
a loyal, and a united people is the deep, the continuous,
and heartfelt prayer of your Majesty’s obedient
humble servant, Randall Winton.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 20f/i June 1897. — This eventful
day, 1897, has opened, and I pray God to help and pro-
tect me as He has hitherto done during these sixty long
eventful years ! I feel sad at the new losses I have
sustained, especially the last one of our beloved Liko !
God will surely help me on ! How well I remember
this day sixty years ago, when I was called from my
bed by dear Mama to receive the news of my accession ! '■

Dear Vicky arrived and came to breakfast, after
having been tossing about all yesterday at anchor.
Beatrice (all in white), as well as Ella and Ir^ne, also
breakfasted with us. Afterwards Lenchen, Louise
and Arthur and Louischen came in, and they all gave
1 See First Series, vol. i, pp. 96-00.

1897] SERVICE IN ST. GEORGE’S 171

me a beautiful diamond sautoir chain in which Affie,
Marie, Helen, Christian, and Lome also joined. The
two dates and crown formed the snap. Vicky then
brought me her present, a paperweight of chrysoprase
with nay cypher in diamonds.

At eleven I, with all my family, went to St. George’s
Chapel, where a short touching service took place.
We sat facing the altar, with the suites behind us.
In the stalls were the Duke and Duchess of Devon-
shire, Lord and Lady Cadogan, Lord Rosebery, Sir
A. and Lady Bigge, and a few others. The Dean
officiated, assisted by the Canons. The service began
with the hymn, “ Now thank we all our God,” followed
by some of the usual morning prayers. Dear Albert’s
beautiful Te Deum was sung, and the special prayer
for Accession Day followed, with a few others. Then
came the pretty and appropriate hymn, of which the
words were specially written by the Bishop of Wake-
field^ and the music composed by Sir A. Sullivan,
after which another special collect was said. This
very impressive but simple service concluded with
the National Anthem, which all joined in singing.
I was much touched and overcome, especially when
aU my children and grandchildren came up to me and
I kissed them, just as I did ten years ago at West-
minster Abbey. How many of my dear ones have
gone since then !

From the Chapel drove down to Frogmore with
Louise and Beatrice, and remained sitting there some
little time. Christian, Thora, Christie, and Abby®
were at lunch, besides all the others. Afterwards the
whole family, excepting Vicky, went down to St.
George’s Chapel, where Mendelssohn’s Hymn of Praise
was performed in the Nave. Mme Albani came down
on purpose to sing in it. At five, all, excepting Vicky
and Lenchen, left for London. Felt rather nervous
about the coming days, and that all should go off well.

* The Bishop died ’within a couple of months, “ a most charming,
excellent man,” as the Queen described him in her Journal.

2 Younger son of Prince Christian, afterwards Duke of Holstein ;
J. Ma 1 981

172

HEAKTY RECEPTION IN LONDON [chap, xiii

Mr. Goschen to Queen Victoria.

Admiealty, 2Qth June 1897. — ^Mr. Goschen, with
his humble duty, begs to be allowed, as one of the
oldest of your Majesty’s servantJr, to be among the
first who offer their heartfelt congratulations to your
Majesty on this memorable day.

Mr. Goschen has received so much kindness from
your Majesty dming more than thirty years that per-
sonal affection associates itself in his heart with those
feelings of loyal devotion and deep admiration which
are moving your Majesty’s happy subjects to eloquent
expressions of attachment in all parts of your dominions.

Mr. Goschen prays that your Majesty may con-
tinue to enjoy in full measure every blessing which
Providence can bestow on a Sovereign so universally
beloved.

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Buckingham Palace, 2lst June 1897. — The 10th
anniversary of the celebration of my fifty years
Jubilee. Breakfasted with my three daughters at
the Cottage at Progmore. A fine warm morning.

At quarter to twelve we drove to the station to
start for London. The town was very prettily
decorated, and there were great crowds, who cheered
very much. At Paddington I was received by Lord
Cork, Lord Emlyn, Sir N. Kingscote, Mr. Murdoch,
and the other Directors of the G.W.R. Drove with
Vicky, Lenchen, and Beatrice, going at a fast pace
to the Paddington Vestry platform, where an address
was presented by the Vicar of Paddington. Then we
proceeded at a slow trot, with a Sovereign’s escort of
the 1st Life Guards. Passed through dense crowds,
who gave me a most enthusiastic reception. It was
like a triumphal entry. We passed down Cambridge
Terrace, under a lovely arch, bearing the motto,
“ Our hearts thy Throne.” The streets were beauti-
fully decorated, also the balconies of the houses with
flowers, flags, and draperies of every hue. At Edgware
Road there were two more very fine arches. The

1897] GREETING FAMILY AND GUESTS 173

streets, the windows, the roofs of the houses, were one
rnass of beaming faces, and the cheers never ceased.
On entering the park, through the Marble Arch, the
crowd was even greater, carriages were drawn up
amongst the peopld*on foot, even on the pretty little
lodges well-dressed people were perched. Hyde Park
Corner and Constitution HiU were densely crowded.
All vied with one another to give me a heartfelt, loyal,
and affectionate welcome. 1 was deeply touched and
gratified. The day had become very fine and very hot.

Reached the Palace shortly after 1, and Vicky
at once brought me her three daughters, Charlotte,
Vicky and Mossy, and Adolph. Whilst I was resting,
Ernie, Ducky, Ella, Serge, and Victoria B[attenberg]
came in bringing me a beautiful diamond pendant
with sapphires, and the date in Slavonic characters on
it. Vicky, her girls, and Beatrice lunched with me.
Directly afterwards, Augusta and Fritz Strelitz,
Mary (wonderfully recovered), Franz Teck and their
two sons, came to present me with a very handsome
book-cover. Bertie, Alix, and their two daughters,
and Charles of Denmark gave me a beautiful diamond
brooch. Then I was taken round in my wheeled chair
to the Bow Room, where all my family awaited me,
including Marie Coburg, whom I had not yet seen.
Seated in my chair, as I cannot stand long, I received
all the foreign Princes in succession, beginning with the
Archduke Franz Ferdinand.^ Bertie presented them
all to me, after which Lord Salisbury presented all the
special Ambassadors and Envoys. The Prince of
Persia gave me a picture of the present Shah, in a
very handsome frame. I got back to my room a little
before four, quite exhausted. Telegrams kept pouring
in. It was quite impossible even to open them.
Had tea in the garden with Lenchen. Afiie came and
brought me his dear little granddaughter.

Dressed for dinner. I wore a dress of which the
whole front was embroidered in gold, which had been

^ The heir to the Austrian throne, whose murder at Serajevo, on
28th June 1914, brought on the Great War.

174 JUBILEE DAY [chap, xiii

specially worked in India, diamonds in my cap, and a
diamond necklace, etc. The dinner was in the Supper-
room at little tables of twelve each. All the family,
foreign royalties, special Ambassadors and Envoys
were invited. I sat between the Archduke Franz
Ferdinand and the Prince of Naples. After dinner
went into Ball-room, where my private band played
and the following were presented to me : the Colonial
Premiers with their wives, the Special Envoys, the
three Indian Princes, and all the officers of the two
Indian escorts, who, as usual, held out their swords
to be touched by me, and the different foreign suites.
The Ball-room was very full and dreadfully hot, and
the light very inefficient. It was only a little after
eleven, when I got back to my room, feeling very tired.
There was a deal of noise in the streets, and we were
told that many were sleeping out in the parks.

22nd June . — ^A never-to-be-forgotten day. No one
ever, I believe, has met with such an ovation as was
given to me, passing through those six miles of streets,
including Constitution Hill. The crowds were quite
indescribable, and their enthusiasm truly marvellous
and deeply touching. The cheering was quite deafen-
ing, and every face seemed to be filled with real joy.
I was much moved and gratified.

The night had been very hot, and I was rather
restless. There was such a noise going on the whole
time, but it did not keep me from getting some sleep.
Dull early and close. Breakfasted with Vicky,
Lenchen, and Beatrice in the Chinese luncheon room.
The head of the procession, including the Colonial
troops, had unfortunately already passed the Palace
before I got to breakfast, but there were still a great
many, chiefly British, passing. I watched them for a
little while. At a quarter-past eleven, the others being
seated in their carriages long before, and having
preceded me a short distance, I started from the State
entrance in an open State landau, drawn by eight
creams, dear Alix, looking very pretty in lilac, and
Lenchen sitting opposite me. I felt a good deal

1897] PROCESSION THROUGH LONDON 175

agitated, and had been so all these days, for fear any-
thing might be forgotten or go wrong. Bertie and
George C. rode one on each side of the carriage,
Arthur (who had charge of the whole military arrange-
ments) a little in the rear. My escort was formed
from the 2nd Life Guards and officers of the native
Indian regiments, these latter riding immediately in
front of my carriage. Guard of Honour of Blue-
jackets, the Guards, and the 2nd West Surrey Regi-
ment (Queen’s) were mounted in the Quadrangle and
outside the Palace.

Before leaving I touched an electric button, by
which I started a message which was telegraphed
throughout the whole Empire. It was the following :
“ From my heart I thank my beloved people, May
God bless them ! ” At this time the sun burst out.
Vicky was in the carriage nearest me, not being able
to go in mine, as her rank as Empress prevented her
sitting with her back to the horses, for I had to sit
alone. Her carriage was drawn by four blacks,
richly caparisoned in red. We went up Constitution
Hill and Piccadilly, and there were seats right along
the former, where my own servants and personal
attendants, and members of the other Royal House-
holds, the Chelsea Pensioners, and the children of
the Duke of York’s and Greenwich schools had seats.
St. James’s Street was beautifully decorated with
festoons of flowers across the road and many loyal
inscriptions. Trafalgar Square was very striking, and
outside the National Gallery stands were erected for
the House of Lords. The denseness of the crowds
was immense, but the order maintained wonderful.
The streets in the Strand are now quite wide, but one
misses Temple Bar. Here the Lord Mayor received
me and presented the sword, which I touched. He
then immediately mounted his horse in his robes, and
galloped past bare-headed, carrying the sword, pre-
ceding my carriage, accompanied by his Sheriffs. As
we neared St. Paul’s the procession was often stopped,
and the crowds broke out into singing God Save the

176 SERVICE AT ST. PAUL’S [chap, xiii

Queen. In one house were assembled the survivors
of the Charge of Balaclava.

In front of the Cathedral the scene was most im-
pressive. All the Colonial troops, on foot, were
drawn up round the Square- My carriage, surrounded
by all the Royal Princes, was drawn up close to the
steps, where the Clergy were assembled, the Bishops
in rich copes, with their croziers, the Archbishop of
Canterbury and the Bishop of London each holding
a very fine one. A Te Deum was sung, specially
composed by Dr. Martin ; the Lord’s Prayer, most
beautifully chanted, a special Jubilee prayer, and the
benediction concluded the short service, preceded by
the singing of the old 100th, in which everyone joined.
God Save the Queen was also sung. I then spoke to the
Archbishop and Bishop of London. As I drove off,
the former gave out, “ Three cheers for the Queen.”

I stopped in front of the Mansion House, where
the Lady Mayoress presented me with a beautiful
silver basket full of orchids. Here I took leave of the
Lord Mayor. Both he and the Lady Mayoress were
quite imus. We proceeded over London Bridge,
where no spectators were allowed, only troops, and
then along the Borough Road, where there is a very
poor population, but just as enthusiastic and orderly
as elsewhere. The decorations there were very pretty,
consisting chiefly of festoons of flowers on either side
of the street. Crossed the river again over West-
minster Bridge, past the Houses of Parliament,
through Whitehall, Parliament Street, which has been
much enlarged, through the Horse Guards and down the
Mall. The heat during the last hour was very great,
and poor Lord Howe, who was riding as Gold Stick,
fainted and had a bad fall, but was not seriously hurt.

Got home at a quarter to two. All the carriages
that had preceded mine were drawn up in the court-
yard as I drove in. Had a quiet luncheon with Vicky,
Beatrice, and her three children. Troops continually
passing by. Then rested and later had tea in the
garden with Lenchen. There was a large dinner in

1897] CELEBRATION IN INDIA 177

the Supper-room, the same as yesterday. Bertie,
who sat at my table, gave out the health of the Em-
press Frederick and my distinguished guests. I
walked into the Ball-room afterwards, and sat down in
front of the dais. Felt very tired, but tried to speak
to most of the Princes and Princesses ; the suites also
came in, but no one else. I wore a Hack and silver
dress with my Jubilee necklace and the beautiful
brooch given me by my Household. In the morning
I wore a dress of black silk, trimmed with panels of
grey satin veiled with black net and steel embroider-
ies, and some black lace, my lovely diamond chain,
given me by my younger children, round my neck.
My bonnet was trimmed with creamy white flowers,
and white aigrette and some black lace. I left the
Ball-room at eleven. There were illuminations, which
we did not see, but could hear a great deal of cheering
and singing. Gave souvenirs to my children and
grandchildren.

The Earl of Elgin to Queen Victoria.

Viceregal Lodge, Simla, 22nd June 1897. —
The Viceroy presents his humble duty to your Majesty,
and is anxious not to allow the mail which leaves
to-day to go without a few lines to convey to your
Majesty his respectful homage and congratulations.
The Viceroy has this moment returned from the Town
Hall, where, as desired by your Majesty, he received
the deputations who had come to Simla with ad-
dresses of congratulation. Considering the difficulties
of travel at this time of the year, and the comparative
inaccessibility of this place, it was a very representa-
tive assembly ; and the message from your Majesty,
which the Viceroy received from the Secretary of
State this morning, was received with much enthu-
siasm when he read it to the meeting. Not only the
members of the deputations, but also all the high
officers of Government were present, for an occasion
where he was called upon to represent your Majesty
in so special and honourable a manner, the Viceroy

178 EARTHQUAKES IN INDIA [chap, xiii

thought ought to be marked by full State ceremonies.
He hopes he did not do amiss in including in the
remarks which he addressed to the meeting a strong
appeal for the promotion of the spirit of goodwill
which, from many of the letters he has received from
your Majesty, he is well aware your Majesty is so
anxious to see prevail among the Indian people, and
which your Majesty has more than once instructed him
to lose no opportunity of inculcating.

The Viceroy thinks your Majesty may be assured
that the manifestation of loyalty, which is being
witnessed in India, is the spontaneous work of the
people. With your Majesty’s approval the Govern-
ment has announced that under the circumstances of
the year it will not directly interpose. But the
Viceroy has been struck at the way in which from
remote districts, even from the hills of Hunza, messages
have been pouring in upon him. A full statement of
these will be prepared and forwarded, as well as the
more formal addresses. Many of the latter are enclosed
in caskets of beautiful design and workmanship.

It is with a feeling that it is not inappropriate to
the day that the Viceroy is able in this letter to
announce that the monsoon has fairly burst, and that
most of the districts, which suffered severely, have
now had a welcome fall of rain. The rains are a little
late, but that is of less importance if they do not, as
last year, fail too soon. It is too early to say how the
numbers on the relief works will be affected, but it is
the universal expectation that the numbers will fall very
rapidly. Many will j oin in the hope that the week may
prove the beginning of a return of prosperity to the
Provinces which have suffered so greatly.

The plague returns also have been very satis-
factory. On the other hand the terrible earthquakes,
which occurred last week, have caused a fresh series of
disasters. The damage in Calcutta though serious
was fortunately attended with little loss of life ; and
the same was apparently the case in other parts of
Bengal, where property suffered even more severely.

1897] LORD SALISBURY ON THE DAY 179

The palace of the Maharajah of Kuch Behar and the
neighbouring town are said to be completely wrecked.
It was, however, in Assam that the shocks were most
severe, and indeed from telegrams and a letter which
he received last night from the Chief Commissioner,
Mr. Cotton, the Viceroy is by no means certain that
they have ceased. Mr. Cotton had a very narrow
escape, he was getting into a carriage with his wife,
when the whole porch of the house fell in. Mr. Mc-
Cabe, a distinguished officer of the Assam Adminis-
tration, whose name the Viceroy had submitted for a
mark of your Majesty’s favour, being in his house at
the time, was killed, but most fortunately the earth-
quake occurred at an hour, 5 p.m., when after a wet
day almost everybody was out of doors. The com-
munications with Assam are still defective owing to
destruction of roads, as well as telegraphs, and details
have not been received, but the latest news gives
reason to hope that the loss of life was not so large as
was at first feared. . . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,

Foreign Office, 22n<i June 1897. — . . . Lord
Salisbury ventures to take the opportunity to con-
gratulate your Majesty respectfully but most heartily
on the splendid success of to-day’s celebration. It
wiU live in history as a unique and unequalled demon-
stration of the attachment which has grown more and
more in intensity between the Sovereign of a vast
Empire and her subjects of every chme.

\Same date .'] — Lord Salisbury with his humble duty
respectfully submits to your Majesty a suggestion
which he prays your Majesty to pardon because it is
outside his own province. Your Majesty has on this
occasion been conferring the Victorian Order on
several illustrious persons. He submits that it might
be suitable and advantageous to confer it upon the
young King of Spain. He is too young to receive
the Garter ; but any expression of your Majesty’s
sympathy would be very precious.

TTT 1 8

180 LORD ROSEBERY’S CONGRATULATIONS [chap, xiii

The Earl of Bosebery to Queen Victoria.

22nd June 1807 .

Madam, — I cannot let this day pass without laying
at your Majesty’s feet my humble and dutiful con-
gratulations . What it must represent to your Maj esty ,
of joy and sorrow, of pride and pathos, of the present
and the past, I can only dimly guess. To us it has
been the splendid expression of a nation’s gratitude,
the symbol of loyalty, deep, passionate, and stedfast,
which has encompassed your Majesty’s throne, and
grown year by year with your Majesty’s life, until it
has penetrated every remotest corner and subject of
the Empire. Could your Majesty have heard to-day
the vast multitude spontaneously singing God Save the
Queen before your carriage passed, your Majesty
could scarcely fail to have been moved and gratified.
No capital in the world has ever witnessed such an
enthusiasm of devotion to a Sovereign.

My mind could not but turn to that different but
not less touching occasion at St. George’s last Sunday
morning. That simple act of worship and thanks-
giving, crowned by the affectionate embrace of your
Majesty’s family, will always remain in my memory as
the most profoundly interesting and pathetic scene
that I have ever witnessed. I thank your Maj esty with
all my heart for allowing me to be present.

It is to-day two years since I resigned into your
Majesty’s hands the position of First Minister, and so
lost the honour of constant communication with your
Majesty. But your Majesty then bade me write
sometimes, and I hope that I am not abusing this
privilege in writing this letter.

That health and long life and prosperity and suc-
cess may attend your Majesty is the fervent prayer of
your Majesty’s devoted servant and subject, Rose-
bery .

Lord Acton to Queen Victoria.

The ATHEN.aEUM, 22nd June 1897. — ^With his most
humble duty to your Majesty Lord Acton begs per-

1897] TELEGRAM EROM TSAR AND TSARINA 181

mission, to express his heartfelt gratitude for the
honour which your Majesty has been graciously
pleased to confer on him this day.^

That his name and his devoted service should have
been in your Majesty’s thoughts on this memorable
and historic occasion is a privilege of which he is
deeply sensible. For it associates the. distinction
bestowed upon him with the most striking and most
touching scene he has ever beheld. Your Majesty’s
most humble and devoted servant, Acton.

The Emperor and Empress of Russia to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Peterhof, Alexandria, 28rd June 1897. — So
delighted all went off well. Hope you had a good
night, feel rested. Touched you wore our present.
Tenderest love. Nicky, Alix. ^

The Duke of Argyll to Queen Victoria.

Argyll Lodge, ICensingxon, 23rd June 1897.

Madam, — write only to say with what emotion
Ina and I saw your Majesty yesterday in the great
procession in St. James’ Street. It was a sight never
equalled and never to be forgotten.

Although your Majesty’s Home Troops were far
the finest, we were much interested in the Colonials.
Their uniform is duU-coloured. But we could not
help remembering that no Sovereign since the fall of
Rome could muster subjects from so many and so
distant countries all over the world. The Empire of
Charles Vth was nothing to compare with it, although
he was monarch of Spain and the Indies, as well as
Emperor in Germany.

I am sure I need not assure your Majesty of our
personal gratitude and devotion, or of the joy with
which we unite with all your Majesty’s people in
praying for every blessing on your Majesty. Your
Majesty’s devoted subject and servant, Argyll.

1 Lord Acton, the historian, had been Lord-in-Waiting to the Queen
1892-1895 (see vol. ii, pp. 146, 188, 477), and her Majesty nov made
him K r V.O.

182

ADDRESSES FROM BOTH HOUSES [chap, xm

Esotract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 28rd June 1897. — ^At 3.30 I went
to the Ball-room [in Buckingham Palace], where the
heat was dreadful, and received Addresses from the
House of Lords and House of Commons. Bertie, Alix,
Affie, Marie, Beatrice, Georgia, and May were with me,
and stood right behind me on the dais, where I sat.
Louisa Buccleuch and Jane Churchill also stood behind,
and Lord Lathom and Lord Pembroke below the
steps of the dais. First came the Members of the House
of Lords, the Lord Chancellor, Lord Salisbury and
Lord Kimberley standing on either side. There was
an immense gathering of Peers. The Lord Chancellor
read the Address, and I said a few words in return, as
I cannot read without spectacles or a magnifier, and I
handed the official answer. Lord Salisbury, Lord
Kimberley, and the Lord Chancellor kissed my hand.
Next came the Members of the House of Commons,
Mr. Balfour and Sir William Harcourt standing on
either side of the Speaker. The same ceremonial was
gone through as with the House of Lords This over,
the Chairmen of the County Councils came by, one by
one, followed by 400 Mayors and Provosts. The
whole lasted about an hour. It being so hot and dark
in the room, I felt quite sleepy.

Left Buckingham Palace at half -past five, driving
with Vicky, Beatrice, and Arthur. I inspected the
Yeomen of the Guard, who were drawn up in the
garden on the lawn facing the water. They were
under the command of Lord Waldegrave. Then we
drove on quite slowly, escorted by a Sovereign’s escort
of the 2nd Life Guards and by the Indian escort of my
Army. The crowd was almost more dense along
Constitution Hill than yesterday. The stands on the
left were filled [by] 10,000 schoolchildren from the
elementary schools of London. Stopped near Hyde

' The reception of the House of Commons was mismanaged, many
members not getting into the Throne-room. Accordingly the Queen
invited Members and their wives to a Garden-party at Windsor. See
below, pp. 187-8.

1897] WELCOME BY CHILDREN IN THE PARK 183

Park Corner, where there was a Guard of Honour
drawn up, and where Addresses were presented by
Lord Londonderry on behalf of the School Board, by
the Bishop of London on behalf of the Church Schools,
by Cardinal Vaughan on behalf of the Roman Catholic
children, followed by Lord Rothschild for the Jewish
ones. Dr. Waller for the Wesleyan Education Com-
mittee, and Mr. Kemp. Welch for the British and other
undenominational schools. Three verses of God Save
the Queen were sung by the children before I. drove on.
Bertie and Alix, George and May, with little David,
were all present in carriages. At St. George’s Hospital
all the nurses grouped together on a stand made a
pretty effect in their white caps and aprons. The
whole way to Paddington there were the same masses
of enthusiastic cheering people. At the station
troopers of the Colonial troops were drawn up along-
side the train, and cheered very heartily as we left.
Had tea in the train.

Reached Slough at seven, or a little before, and got
into an open landau with four greys and the postihons
in Ascot livery. Had a Sovereign’s escort of the
Blues, as well as an escort of the Colonial contingent.
The carriage drew up for a few hundred yards from
the station opposite a sort of dais, where Lord Roths-
child (Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire), Lord
Curzon, and many other ladies and gentlemen were as-
sembled, and where Addresses were presented to me by
the Mayor of Slough and Magistrates of the County, also
by the Bucks County Council, and the Slough Urban
District. Three children from the British Orphan
Asylum gave me a bouquet. Vicky, Beatrice, and
Arthur again drove with me. Slough was very pret-
tily decorated, and there were great crowds the whole
way, who were very enthusiastic. Just before enter-
ing Eton we passed under an architectural arch, on
which stood three boys dressed as Heralds. Inside
the arch stood four young Indian boys, in their native
dress, sons of the Maharajah of Kuch Behar, the
Minister of Hvderabad, and the Prince of Gondal.

184 DRIVE THROUGH ETON AND WINDSOR [chap, xin

The Eton Volunteers formed a Guard of Honour,
headed hy Dr. Warre. Young Arthur was amongst
them. This was at the College, where we stopped, and
all the boys of the school were drawn up. I received
Addresses from the Provost and Masters, as well as
from the scholars, and these were not read, but handed
to me in the carriage. Eton was charmingly decor-
ated, and there was another pretty architectural arch
close to the Windsor Bridge, where an Address was
presented by the Thames Conservancy.

We stopped again at the foot of the Castle Hill,
where my statue stands, and I received an Address
from the Mayor and Corporation, and the St. George’s
Choir sang God Save the Queen. Christian and others
were there. After this we drove slowly through the
town and up the straight road to the Castle, along
which were ranged two or three thousand children
from the schools of the neighbourhood who sang. It
was nearly eight when we arrived, and I felt exceed-
ingly hot and tired. But I was much gratified by the
great enthusiasm displayed everywhere, and greatly
admired all the decorations, which were really quite
beautiful. Only Christian and Lome dined with us.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 2Uh June 1897. — Lord Salis-
bury with his humble duty respectfully tenders his
most earnest thanks to your Majesty for the very
gracious and most kind offer of your Majesty to confer
on him the ribbon of the Victorian Order in connection
with the present celebration. If he were at liberty
to accept it, he should value it beyond any other
possible decoration, as having been bestowed by your
Majesty’s hand at such a time. But he has carefully
avoided recommending any of his colleagues for
honours, in order to prevent jealousies in the party ;
and if he were himself to accept this great honour, he
should put himself entirely in a false position. He
prays, therefore, your Majesty to permit him to de-
cline it ; and to believe that he does so with a sense of

1897] GARDEN-PARTY AT THE PALACE 185

the liveliest gratitude to your Majesty, and only from
a desire to serve your Majesty as effectually as he can.

Lord Salisbury is very grateful to hear that your
Majesty is not excessively tired.

He will telegraph to Sir H. Wolff about the Order i
unless, which would be better, your Majesty would
be willing to telegraph direct to the Queen Regent,

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 28 th June 1897. — Left at
quarter to twelve for London. Drove from Padding-
ton to Kensington by Bayswater, and stopped in front
of the Parish Church of St. Mary Abbott, where Louise,
Lome, the Mayor and Corporation, etc., were assem-
bled. An Address was read and presented, as well as
bouquets. I answered that I was always pleased to
come to my native borough. The crowds were very
great, and the people most enthusiastic. The whole
place was most beautifully decorated with arches, flags,
and inscriptions. Reached Buckingham Palace at
half-past one. Before going up to my room, I planted
a tree not far from the one I planted ten years ago.

At a few minutes past five, got into my victoria
with Vicky for the garden-party, all the rest of the
family and foreign royalties being on foot. Drove
about amongst my guests, to many of whom I spoke,
but I could not see many whom I wished to. Alix
changed places with Vicky part of the time. Had tea
in the tent. The Princess of Naples and Augusta
Strelitz sat a little while with me. All the Princes
and Princesses who are leaving England, including
Ella and Serge, took leave of me, and I got into the
landau with Vicky and Beatrice to return to Windsor.
Amongst the guests invited were some of the leading
actors and actresses, viz. Henry Irving, Ellen Terry,
the Bancrofts, etc. Among the musicians were
Albani, with whom I shook hands, and Tosti, also
many artists. Got back to Windsor at eight, very
tired. Only the ladies to dinner.

1 See aljove, p. 179.

186

EEVIEW OF COLONIAL TROOPS [chap, xin

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

10 Downing Street, 28th June 1897. — ^Mr.
Balfour . . . begs humbly to inform your Majesty
that after the London Water Bill passed through its
second reading without a division a curious episode
brought the sitting to a close. So great was the desire
of Members to be present at your Majesty’s garden-
party that the Government was left in a minority.
They were beaten on a (quite unimportant) division,
and the irresponsible Opposition, in the absence of
their own front bench, finding themselves quite un-
controlled, proceeded to refuse the adjournment of
the House proposed by Mr. Balfour, and to play
various other quite harmless antics, until the Unionist
Members returned, and Mr. Balfour, resuming his
rightful authority, adjourned the House.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 2nd July 1897. — At five drove
with Beatrice and Irene through the Slopes to the field
on the left of the Lime Avenue, where all the Colonial
troops were drawn up in line, under the command of
Lord Roberts, and all were on foot. I was received
with a royal salute, and then I drove slowly down the
line, Lord Roberts and Lord Methuen walking near
the carriage and naming each [contingent] as we came
up to them, and we stopped at each.

It was a very interesting and curious sight, for
there were men from every part of the world. The
most noticeable among them were the Sikhs from
India, the Hong-Kong Police from China, and the
Houssas from West Africa, most of the latter having
taken part in the Ashanti Expedition, and Beatrice
had seen them before the Inspection. One of the
English officers and a native one had known Liko,
and the latter was called up for me to speak to him.
The Houssas are fine-looking men, but very black.
On returning to the saluting point the troops marched

* Princess Henry of Prussia,

18971 COMMONS PARTY AT WINDSOR 187

past, reformed in line, and gave a second royal salute.
At the conclusion an officer and non-commissioned
officer from each regiment were brought up to my
carriage to be presented, and I asked several questions
about them, saying a few words in Hindustani to some
of the Sikhs, who were very fine, handsome men.
Poor Captain Giffard, who lost his arm in the late
war in the Transvaal, having had it taken out at the
socket, came by with the Rhodesian Horse.

Before leaving the ground, and as soon as all the
presentations were over, I said to Lord Roberts,
“ Will you tell the officers and men what a great
pleasure it has been to me to see so many of my subjects
from the different Colonies here to-day ? I hope
they will all return here some day, and I wish them
happiness and all prosperity.” This he repeated to
the troops.

8rd July . — ^Marie with Baby B. arrived before
five. Drove with her in the victoria to the lawn under
the Terrace, Lenchen, Louise, and Beatrice being on
foot. Here I gave a sort of garden-party to the
Members of the House of Commons, their wives and
daughters. Drove about slowly amongst my guests
and spoke to some. Some of the Labour Members
were presented, which I heard afterwards gratified
them very much.

Mh July . — ^Heard on getting up that my dear
good Annie Macdonald has passed away early this
morning. I am deeply grieved, and cannot the least
realise that I have lost not only an excellent faithful
maid, but a real friend, who was absolutely devoted
to me. She had been forty-one years in my service,
thirty-one of which as wardrobe maid, and was quite
invaluable.

Sir William Harcourt to Queen Victoria.

7 Richmond Teekace, Whitehall, 4th July
1897. — Sir William Harcourt presents his humble duty
to the Queen, and hopes he may be permitted to ex-
press to your Majesty, on behalf of himself and many

188 SATISFACTION OF MEMBERS [chap, xiii

Members of the House of Commons in whose name
he may speak, the grateful sense they entertain of the
gracious and magnificent reception which the Queen
was pleased to grant to them at Windsor on Saturday.
It was impossible that any greater reward should have
been bestowed for their loyal and devoted attachment
to your Majesty’s Person and Throne. And the
thoughtful Idndness by which this noble entertain-
ment was inspired has caused the most heartfelt and
hvely satisfaction and pleasure, the recollection of
which will always be treasured in their grateful
memories.

Sir William asks leave personally to express his
gladness that the Queen should have been able so well
to support the immense fatigue of this memorable
celebration in which your Majesty has been able to
witness the outpouring of the loyalty of her loving
subjects gathered together to do her honour from
every quarter of her vast dominions ; and to hope
that her life may still for years be spared to those who
look up to her with reverence and affection.^

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 6th July 1897. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty trusts he is not
going beyond his duty in expressing to your Majesty
the immense pleasure which the garden-party at
Windsor on Saturday last conferred upon the Members
of the House of Commons. It not only wiped out all
recollections of the contretemps ^ of the preceding
week, but afforded a degree of satisfaction which could
never have arisen from the presentation of an Address,
however successful might have been the accompany-
ing ceremonial. . . .

1 In a note to Sii Arthur Bigge accompanying the above letter,
Sir William wrote ; " Nothing co5d have been better than the enter-
tainment of yesterday. It was ng/rf royally done : everything most
handsomely provided, and great courtesy to the guests from aU the
Court and Household. It was a happy thought happily executed, and
has given great satisfaction and will do great good in all ways.”

“ See above, p. 182.

1897] HONOUR FOR COLONIAL PREMIERS

189

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 6th July 1897. — Mr. W[hitelaw]
Reid ^ was full of the kindest expressions to me
personally, and said that the people in America were
so much attached to me, and spoke of me as “ the
good Queen,” and that there was in fact a very friendly
feeling towards this country, the various disputes and
disagreements being really entirely superficial.

7th July. — ^Held a Council in the White Drawing-
room, before which I saw the Duke of Devonshire.
At the Council, at which Arthur was present, the
fifteen Colonial Premiers were sworn in P.C.s, the
principal one being Sir Wilfrid Laurier, a French
Canadian, They then presented me with Addresses
in most beautiful caskets, and I gave them their
Jubilee medals, after which the wives of the Premiers
were presented. They also gave me beautifully
illuminated Addresses. Mr. Chamberlain presented
the Premiers and Mrs. Chamberlain the ladies.

Bishop Creighton to Queen Victoria.

Fulham Palace, 8th July 1897. — The Bishop of
London presents his humble duty to her Majesty, and
in obedience to her Majesty’s command, has the honour
to submit the following imperfect attempt to describe
the memorable scene of the celebration of the sixtieth
anniversary of her Majesty’s reign. That he has
delayed in writing it is due to the fact that he wished
to have some little time to be sure that his impressions
were shared by others, and were trustworthy.

Memorandum by Bishop Creighton.

The proceedings of 22nd June were of so unique
a character that it is hard to find a standard by which
to measure their significance. They were not the recog-
nised expression of national sentiment gathering
round a stated ceremony, such as a Coronation.

^ Special United States Envoy for the Diamond Jubilee, afterwards
Amt "dor in T nniinn.

190 BP. CREIGHTON ON THE JUBILEE [chap, xiii

Ceremonies of that kind owe their impressiveness to
the fact that they mark definite epochs in the national
life, and have their place amongst the procedure of the
State. They are organised as magnificent exhibitions
of a nation’s sense of its own greatness, and in them the
person of the ruler is regarded as a symbol of the
national life. Far otherwise were the proceedings of
22nd Jrme in London. They were not according to
any precedent. They did not aim at embodying
any recognised ceremonial. They were not intended
to show forth the nation’s belief in itself. They were
entirely simple, and absolutely personal ; they had
reference only to the Queen. The Ruler who had
governed England for a longer time than any of her
predecessors drove through her capital city that she
might receive in person the congratulations of her
people. On her way she paused at the door of the
Cathedral Church, where a brief service of thanks-
giving was offered to Almighty God. This was all that
took place. It cannot be called a State ceremony. Its
impressiveness lay in its simplicity and its spontaneity.

Yet no ceremonial recorded in history was ever
more impressive, more truly national, or expressed
more faithfully sentiments which were deeply and
universally felt. The very fact that it was simple,
personal, and unfettered by precedent gave it an ex-
tension which was at first unforeseen. There was no
time for elaborate preparations. The scheme took
shape almost of itself, in obedience to the popular
desire. There was no thought of making a great
national display, but the nation had such a deep
desire to show its reverence to the Queen that things
grew in proportion from day to day. The wish of
England was re-echoed in England’s Colonies. The
occasion expanded into a sigruficant manifestation of
imperial greatness, and of a fundamental unity of
purpose, which came as a revelation to England and
the Colonies alike, and awakened the respectful
wonder of all Europe. Yet this feature was entirely
incidental : it was recognised afterwards with natural

1897] DUKE OF CONNAUGHT AS A SOLDIER 191

pride, but it was scarcely present at the time to the
minds of spectators. They were not there to do
honour to themselves as Englishmen : they were there
to do honour to the Queen. The proceedings through-
out were charged with strong personal feeling. It was
not the grandeur, the dignity, or the display which
were impressive : it was the intimacy and the sin-
cerity of the respect and affection felt towards the
Queen which was in the air, and brought home to
every heart an overpowering emotion in the thoughts
of what England had become under her rule, and what
she had done for England.

It is only by reference to these considerations that
the actual ceremony of St. Paul’s Cathedral can be
understood. The spectators were not there to ad-
mire a pageant : they were present, every one of them,
to express a deep-seated personal feeling.^ . . .

The real significance of the day was the depth of
the emotion which it stirred and expressed. “ Happy
is the people that is in such a case 1 ”

[Copy.] Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Salisbury.

WiNDSOK Castle, ISth July 1897.

Dear Lord Salisbury, — Though the Queen has,
as you are aware, abandoned the idea of the Duke of
Connaught’s being Adjutant-General, H.M. feels that
some recorded assurance should be given that, in the
opinion of the Government, the fact of H.R.H.’s not
having served in that capacity or as Quartermaster-
General should not hereafter be regarded as a dis-
qualification for the post of Commander-in-Chief.

The Queen would remind you of the great and
varied experiences of the Duke of Connaught’s military
career, which, combined with H.R.H.’s characteristic
conscientious zeal and his love for the service, in
H.M.’s opinion are qualities which would make any
General Officer of his standing a fit choice for Com-
mander-in-Chief. The Queen desires me to caU your

1 Here follows a description of the scene and ceremony in St. Paul’s
Churchyard.

192 POST OF COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF [chap, xiii

attention to a letter in to-day’s Times which attacks,
in a manner which I feel sure would be condemned
by all soldiers, the manner in which the Duke of
Connaught has commanded at Aldershot, and then
proceeds, as did a Writer in a recent article to the
Daily Chronicle, to deprecate the very idea of
H.R.H.’s ever becoming Commander-in-Chief. The
fact of such views being openly advocated in a
newspaper like The Times renders it all the more
imperative that the Queen should be satisfied that, in
following the advice of her Ministers on this question,
she is in no way endangering the prospects of the
Duke of Connaught’s succeeding at the right time to
the position of Commander-in-Chief, for which H.M.
believes him to be in every way fitted. Yours very
truly, Arthur Bigge.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Foreign Office, lUh July 1897.

Dear Sir Arthur, — ^The decision of the Queen not
to urge at present the appointment of H.R.H. the Duke
of Connaught to the office of Adjutant-General cannot
in my judgment in any way affect the question of his
appointment at a future time to the office of Com-
mander-in- Chief. This view is sufficiently established
by the circumstance, that, while the office of Com-
mander-in-Chief has been several times held by a
member of the Royal Family, the office of Adjutant-
General has not been so held. It evidently results
that the tenure of the latter office is not a preliminary
required in these cases to the tenure of the former.

In one respect I think that the Duke of Connaught,
by keeping out of the Adjutant-Generalship, will
improve his prospect of being appointed Commander-
in-Chief. He will avoid the danger of personal dif-
ferences which grow abundantly out of the proceed-
ings of that department. Such grievances matter
little in the case of ordinary subjects ; but, in the case
of one of the Queen’s sons, men might be found who
would think it was to their advantage to get the

198

1897] THE COMMONS AND SOUTH AFRICA

notoriety which such a controversy might bestow
upon them. It is an office which creates enemies ;
and for the interest of his Royal Highness’ candida-
ture for the office of Commander-in- Chief, it is very
desirable that he should not make enemies.

I do not myself attach much importance to the
letter in The Times ; but it is so far worthy of atten-
tion, that its appearance indicates that opinion is
sensitive on this matter, and therefore that it requires
circumspect handhng. Believe me, yours very truly,
Salisbury.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House oe Commons, 26th July 1897. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly to
inform your Majesty that this evening was in the main
occupied by an interesting debate on the report of the
South African Committee. Mr. Philip Stanhope ^
moved a resolution hostile to the majority of that com-
mittee, and Mr. Labouchere supported him. But
Sir M. Hicks Beach, followed shortly afterwards by
Sir W. Harcourt, utterly shattered the case of these
objectors, and all the efforts of Mr. Courtney and
others were powerless to set it up again. It was
interesting to note the violent differences of opinion
which divided the Opposition side of the House.
The resolution was a vote of censure to all intents and
purposes on (among others) the leader of the Opposi-
tion. It stood in the name of one of his nominal
followers below the gangway. It was moved and
replied to in speeches of almost equal bitterness. An
amendment was then moved to the resolution, and
opposed not only by Mr. Balfour and the Government,
but by Mr. Stanhope and the Radicals. The net
result of all this was that the majorities against both
resolution and amendment were overwhelming in
their size, and the Opposition were for the moment
hopelessly divided.

The most important speech of the evening was that

194 WHAT ORDER EOR KING OF SIAM ? [chap, xin

by Mr. Chamberlain ; and was a very remarkable
effort. He defended his own action in respect of the
Raid. He exposed the absurdity of the various
legends which have gained currency on the subject of
the supposed complicity of the Colonial Office. He
explained that, however great the error of Mr. Rhodes,
it did not affect his personal honour ; and that in the
necessary reforms which would have to be introduced
into the Government of Rhodesia would not be
included the abolition of the Charter. This general
statement was received with favour, and the whole
proceedings were of a satisfactory character.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Both July 1897. — Think the King of Siam should
have the Star of India. It should arrive here on
Friday (?).

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.
[Cypher Telegram.]

8rd Aug, 1897. — I understand Star of India will be
distasteful to King of Siam, who would be, if the
Queen’s intentions were known, persuaded to refuse
it by his people. No independent Sovereign has the
order, which the Siamese look upon as only suitable
for Feudatories.

The King has the highest orders of every country
except the “ Golden Fleece.” Under the circum-
stances I think it will be better to offer nothing.

I have explained that the Garter is no longer
given to non- Christian Sovereigns.

Sir Francis Knollys to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Royal Yacht “ Osbohnk,” Cowes, 3rd August 189T.

My dear Bigge, — I have submitted your letter
and enclosures to the Prince of Wales. He desires me
to say that it is evident the King [of Siam] would not
like the G.C.B. or G.C.S.I. to be ohered to him, and he
thinks the Queen is quite right not to give him the

THE KING AT OSBORNE

195

1897]

Garter. But would he not be pleased with the
G.C.V.O., if it were explained to him that it is her
Majesty’s own personal order, and is given by her
alone without any reference to Government ? H.R.H.
thinks that it would at all events be worth tele-
graphing to London so that the King might be
sounded on the subject.

The Prince of Wales concurs with Lord Salisbury
and Lord Rosebery in deeming it advisable that a
special class of the Star of India should be created,
which might rank before the Bath. Yours sincerely,
Francis Knollys.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cop?/.] OsBOKNE, Srd August 1897.

My dear Lord Lansdowne, — In reply to your
letter of yesterday to the Queen, her Majesty desires
me to say that before Sir George White is designated
to succeed Sir Evelyn Wood^ she would be glad to
know who is to succeed to the post of Commander-in-
Chief in India on the recall of Sir G. White. The
Queen is glad to hear that you concur in her opinion
that the latter should remain in India until the
general condition of affairs there is more satisfactory
than at present. Yours very truly, Arthur Bigge.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, Mh Aug. 1897, — ^At half-past one I went
down to the hall, where I was joined by Alix, Beatrice,
and my four granddaughters. The King of Siam had
arrived just before with Bertie and Georgie, and his
son Prince Chira, at the other door. Everybody was
in uniform, including the Siamese. Took the King to
the Drawing-room, and there he presented his suite to
me, aU my ladies being present, as well as Lord
Salisbury and Lord Lathom. The King was very
friendly, and said how pleased he was to see me. We
lunched in the Durbar Room, and the band of the

Who had been Quartermaster- General, and had been appointed to
succeed Sir Redvers Buller as Adjutant- General.

196 HIGH MILITARY APPOINTMENTS [chap, siii

Scottish Rifles played outside. It was a big luncheon,
including all the suites. I sat between the King and
Bertie, Alix sitting on his other side next to Prince
Chira. The King left again at half-past three, Bertie
and Alix having preceded him, in order to receive him
on board the Osborne.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.

War Oi’I'ice, 5th Aug. 1897. — Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and in reply to
your Majesty’s enquiry contained in Sir Arthur Bigge’s
letter of the 3rd instant, he begs to say that, in his
opinion, it would be desirable that Sir William Lock-
hart should succeed Sir George White as Commander-
in-Chief, India.

Sir William has a good record of service ; great
experience of frontier warfare, and a thorough know-
ledge of the Indian Army. Lord Lansdowne feels sure
that your Majesty will concur with him that no
officer, however able, is fit for this supremely important
post, unless he has the latter qualification. Sir
William can speak the vernacular languages, and will
be trusted by the native soldiers, whom he has so
often led in the field.

Lord George Hamilton strongly favours Sir
William’s appointment, which is generally expected in
India. Lord Wolseley has been away from the War
Office, and Lord Lansdowne has not been able to con-
sult him, but he has reason to know that the Com-
mander-in- Chief is prepared for Sir William’s selection.
It may interest your Majesty to know that Lord
Roberts told Lord Lansdowne that it was the best
which, in his opinion, could be made.

The time at which Sir William Lockhart might
take Sir George White’s place would be decided after
consultation with the Government of India.

Lord Lansdowne is able to say that the Prime
Minister concurs in this proposal.^-

‘ Through Sir Arthur Bigge the Queen expressed on 8th August
her full approval.

1897]

EXPENSES OF THE JUBILEE

197

Sir Michael Hicks Beach to Queen Victoria.

Treasury Chambers, 5th August 1897. — Sir
Michael Hicks Beach presents his humble duty to
your Majesty, and begs to thank your Majesty very
gratefully for the approbation which your Majesty
has been pleased to express of his action with regard
to the vote for the expenses of the Jubilee celebration.

Sir Michael Hicks Beach very much regrets that
the exigencies of time, at the close of the Session,
permitted no discussion of the vote, for he is con-
vinced that the feeling of the House of Commons,
which, as it was, could only be expressed by cheers,
would then have been shown in an even more grati-
fying manner, and he would have especially liked the
opportunity of communicating to the House that it
was by your Majesty’s own command that the
expenses of the reception of the House at Windsor
Castle, which gave the members of the House so much
pleasure, were not included in the vote.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Hatfield House, 12</t August 1897.

My dear Sir Arthur, — I am very grateful to the
Queen for letting me see these papers and informing
me of her unchanged view with respect to the bestowal
of the Garter upon the King [of Siam]. ... I feel no
doubt that the Queen has taken the right course in
adhering to her former decision.^

I ought to have rephed to you sooner, but I have had
an attack of lumbago. Ever yours truly, Salisbury.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal,

Osborne, 2^th Aug, 1897. — Saw Lord Salisbury
after luncheon. There was much talk on all sorts of
topics. The state of affairs regarding peace is still
very distressing. There is hope that the Greeks may
be able to pay part of the indemnity, which we would
readily guarantee, but the other Powers seem averse,
and Germany wishes to force and not ask Greece to

^ See vol. ii, pp. 530, 561.

198 DUKE OF YORK’S VISIT TO IRELAND [chap, xiii

pay. It is all due to William’s shameful behaviour.
The concert of the Powers has not been a success, and
we have been prevented from doing the good we might
have done. It is most grievous.

Spoke of India and this distressing rising on the
frontier, also of the Ameer. Lord Salisbury said we
must soon agree to let him send his representative
here ; it is the one thing he wants, and the reason for
which he sent his son here. The Indian Government
is very much against it, but we must insist on it, as it
would greatly conciliate the Ameer.

[Cop?/.] Queen Victoria to Earl Cadogan.

Balmoral Castle, Srd Sept. 1897. — The Queen
thanks the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland very much for
his land and interesting letter.

It is very satisfactory and gratifying that the Duke
and Duchess of York’s visit went off so well in every
part of Ireland. It was the same on the occasion of
our three visits there, but alas ! it did not produce a
lasting effect, and the Queen fears this may still be the
case. And various intended visits had to be given
up on account of the sad state of the country caused
by wicked agitators kept for party purposes. The
Queen hopes this will not happen again.^

With regard to a regular residence to be purchased
the Queen cannot say that she is for it. It might
often be difficult to go there, and then might do more
harm than good. Frequent visits from some members
or other of the Queen’s children and grandchildren,
she is inclined to think, would be better, safer, and more
prudent.

Lord Cadogan seems to have arranged everything
admirably, and her [grandjchildren told her that
nothing could excel his or Lady Cadogan’s kindness.

^ Writing to tiie Queen on the 9th Sept,, Lord Salisbury said :
“ Lord Sahsbury ventures respectfully to congratulate your Majesty
on the remarkable success of the visit of H.R.H. the Duke of York to
Ireland. His reception far exceeded 'what anyone ventured to expect ;
and the general impression is that the visit -will have a most salutary
effect on the feelings and disposition of your Majesty’s subjects in
tLat 1 lanrl.”

1897]

THE NIZAM AND THE QUEEN

199

The Nizam of Hyderabad to Queen Victoria.

Sakdar Villa, Hyderabad, 4th September 1897.

Madam, — I have to express my high appreciation
of the great kindness with which your Majesty in
your letter of 22nd July has graciously acknowledged
my congratulations.

Your Majesty’s Poet Laureate wrote ;

To loyal hearts the value of ah gifts
Must vary as the giver’s.

I am very glad to know that you have accordingly
valued my presents and treated them as a proof of my
sincere friendship and esteem. I must also tender
my best thanks to your Majesty for the gracious
assurance of your continued and warm interest in the
welfare of my country and myself. May your
Majesty live long to add still greater glory to your
illustrious reign.

I desire to express once more the high respect and
admiration which I entertain for your Majesty, and to
subscribe myself as my forefathers subscribed before,
your Majesty’s faithful ally and sincere friend, Mm
Mahboob Ali Khan.

Queen Victoria to Lord George Hamilton.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 15th Sept. 1897. — I never
receive any telegraphic news from the India Office
as to what is going on, on the frontier, and would
wish to hear from you [of] what the forces now are
composed, and who are the officers in command. I
telegraphed to the Viceroy himself, hearing nothing
except by the papers, but have received no real details.
All I know is from Reuter and the newspapers.

Pray let me know what is intended. The conduct
of the native Princes and troops is admirable.^

1 Lord George Hamilton in reply explained that “ the fighting upon
the frontier has been of so desultory a nature, and the various operations
so disconnected with one another, that Lord George thought that the
simplest plan of disseminating news would he to send all the telegrams

200

INDIAN FRONTIER FIGHTING [chap, xin

[Copy-I Queen Victoria to Sir Redvers Buller.

Balmoral Castle, IQih Sept. 1897. — The Queen
is anxious to express personally to Sir Redvers Buller
her deep sense of his very valuable services as Adju-
tant-General, which office he held during seven years,
and which he is about to relinquish.

She greatly regrets his leaving this very important
office, and at a time of considerable anxiety. But the
Queen is sure that she can always count on his loyal
devotion to his Queen and country in whatever
position he may be placed.

The Queen concludes by wishing Sir Redvers
Buller and his family every happiness, and will always
take a warm interest in his welfare.

Queen Victoria to Lord George Hamilton.
[Cypher Telegram,]

Balmoral Castle, 19th Sept. 1897. — These news
from the Indian frontier are most distressing. There
must have been a great want of proper combination,
too small bodies of troops sent out here and there,
many small forts with too few men to hold them.
It is our usual fault to send out too small a force.
Ought not Sir G. White to go up himself to see that
aU was right ?

The Native troops behave splendidly, and I hope
the Victoria Cross will be awarded equally to Native
and British troops.

Am most anxious to know the names of those who
have fallen. What a fearful number of officers !

Lord -George Hamilton to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

20th Sept. 1897. — Lord George Hamilton with his
humble duty to your Majesty.

he received to the daily newspapers, who arranged them in such order as
to make intelligible the various operations going on.” He would now
send a marked map with a memorandum to Balmoral, together with all
the important telegrams received.

201

1897] QUEEN’S ANXIETY AND DISTRESS

Heavy loss of General Jeffreys’ force on ITth,
explained in to-day’s telegram. He has since fought
successful action. All the Generals in command
reported to be men of experience and capacity, and
general operations are under direct personal super-
vision of Sir George White.

Forces mobilising on Frontier ample for work
assigned to them, but difficult country through which
they march facilitates attack by enemy on small and
detached parties. Heavy loss of officers very serious,
and due to better rifle tribesmen now possess.

Indian Government aware any' reverse would
inflame whole of Frontier, and devote great energy
and attention to the task before them. Sir William
Lockhart should be in Peshawur next week, when I
will communicate your Majesty’s wish as to distri-
bution of Victoria Cross.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

24f/i Sept. 1897. — ^Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully thanks your Majesty for two letters
received.

In accordance with your Majesty’s commands the
first letter has been sent to Lord George Hamilton.
It undoubtedly seems to have been a mistake to mul-
tiply small posts in the mountainous district, which
are thereby at the mercy of insurgent tribes. The
explanation of this policy seems to be that it was
thought that in this manner the tribes could be gained
over, and made a bulwark against Russia. This has
been often the mistake of the Indian Government to
think exclusively of Russia, which at worst is a distant
danger, and to ignore the danger from native dis-
content which lies at their feet.

Lord Salisbury had noticed with pleasure the des-
patches to which your Majesty refers. Unfortunately,
though the Emperor himself seems to be friendly
to this country, the Russian administration, especially
in the Foreign Office, clings to the old tradition ; and
some time must necessarily elapse before the wiser

202

QUEEN ON “GEORGIE AND MAY” [chap, xiii

views of the Emperor and Empress penetrate the minds
of the officials who have been trained in another
school.

Queen Victoria to Lord George Hamilton.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 2Qth Sept. 1897. — ^Am grieved
but not surprised at the Afridis intending to attack
again. But I fear it will be a long and troublesome
affair, costing many valuable lives. I fear that the
poor people are suffering from the necessity of supply-
ing horses and ponies and cattle to us, as we have lost
so many, which comes heavily upon them after their
famine and plague.

Would wish to know how many Native officers
and men have been killed and wounded. The
former are never mentioned, but only the English,
which I think very wrong.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, SOth Sept. 1897. — Took leave with
much regret of Georgie and May, who are leaving the
first thing to-morrow morning. Every time I see them
I love and like them more and respect them greatly.
Thank God ! Georgie has got such an excellent, use-
ful, and good wife !

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to the King of Siam.

Balmoral, 80th Sept. 1897. — I thank your
Majesty very much for your kind telegram, and am
very glad that you liked your visit to Windsor. I
desire to express my best wishes for your Majesty’s
health and happiness, and trust you may have a
prosperous journey back to your own dominion.
Victoria R. I.

Lord George Hamilton to Queen Victoria.

India Office, Whitehall, S.W., 1st Oct. 1897. —
. . . The military operations on the frontier have been
so far very successful ; due to the skill of the Genemls

1897] FRONTIER FIGHTING EXPLAINED 203

and the gallantry of officers and men. The country
in which these operations have been carried on, is
outside the frontier of British India proper, but, with
one exception, inside the area over which the Indian
Government exercise political control. It is a barren,
desolate country, with little means of subsistence.
The tribes have been punished by the destruction of
their fortified villages and the capture and appropria-
tion of all stores of food. These punishments, to-
gether with the heavy loss of life experienced by the
tribes wherever they have fought, have accelerated the
acceptance of the terms proposed, viz. fines of money
and surrender of arms. The terms being complied
with, there is no object in our troops remaining in these
regions, except where there are routes or passes of
importance which require safeguarding.

The one valley outside the British sphere of
influence in which our troops have been fighting is
that in which the Keddah MuUah, the prime instigator
of these disturbances, lives. Jaroli, his village, was
within the British boundary as designated by the
Durand agreement ; by subsequent arrangement it is
within the Afghan sphere of influence. The Ameer
was informed that we should pursue the Keddah Mullah
if he retreated to his stronghold. The Ameer agreed
provided we did not penetrate farther into his country.

The terms to be imposed upon the Afridis who do
command the Khyber and other important passes
will require very careful consideration after they have
been brought to submission.

Lord George goes to London next week, and will
then discuss with the Indian Council what form the
terms should take, and he hopes when at Balmoral
late in October to be able to submit to the Queen some
scheme for the better control of these frontier routes.

The Earl of Bosehery to Queen Victoria.

Baimobal Castle, 4Wi October 1897.

Madam, — I am honoured by your Majesty’s
gracious note, but fear I am a bad contriver of methods

204 THE QUEEN ON TENNYSON [chap, xiii

to meet a difficulty of this Idnd,^ from want of the
necessary knowledge and experience.

But what occurs to me is that non-Christian
Sovereigns might be given a special decoration con-
sisting of a portrait of yoirr Majesty framed in
diamonds to hang round the neck ; or that a special
category of the Star of India should be formed for
Sovereigns only (indeed, this suggestion might be
combined with the first, and the portrait might con-
stitute the extra insignia of this special category ) ;
or that similarly a special category, for Sovereigns
only, with some such special insignia, should be formed
in the Victorian Order. But of course the cost in
cases where the order is not bestowed as the private
gift of your Majesty, but as a matter of public policy,
would not fall on your Majesty.

In foreign orders a high class is sometimes
formed I believe by giving the decoration in diamonds.
But this would be new here, and therefore not
understood.

With many apologies for the barrenness of these
ideas, I remain, your Majesty’s devoted servant and
subject, Rosebery.

[Copy.'] Queen Victoria to Lord Tennyson.

Balmoral Castle, Qth Oct. 1897. — The Queen has
to thank Lord Tennyson for his kind letter as well as
for the copy of the Life of his father which she will
read with much interest. She greatly admires the
lines placed at the beginning which Lord Tennyson
says were found amongst his unpublished poems.

The Queen will retain a warm recollection of his
father’s ever kind and ready sympathy, evinced
towards herself by her Poet Laureate, whose beautiful
poems she so greatly admires and which have immor-
talised his name.

1 The difficulty of discovering any satisfactory distinction to offer
to non-Christian Sovereigns, if the decision not to confer the Garter upon
them is maintained.

1897]

THE THISTLE AND THE GARTEE,

205

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,

Foreign Office, 17th Oct. 1897.— Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully submits that he
was aware your Majesty as a rule preferred that only
the Thistle should be given to Scottish nobles. But he
knew that your Majesty had allowed the two dignities
to be cumulated in the case of the Duke of Argyll ;
and he thought that possibly your Majesty’s affection
for both the late and the present Duchess, and the long
service of the latter might induce you to make a similar
exception in the case of the Duke of Buccleuch. But
the matter is entirely for your Majesty’s decision.
If you prefer not to depart from the rule, Lord Salis-
bury will submit the name of the Duke of Portland.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury,
[Cypher Telegram.}

Balmoral Castle, 20th Oct, 1897. — I am ready to
make an exception for the Duke, but would wish it to
be the last Scottish nobleman to receive the Thistle
[? Garter].

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

23rd Oct. 1897. — ^Humble duty. Your Majesty’s
cypher is difficult to answer. When the frontier of
India is attacked, the responsibility for defensive
measures necessary must rest on the Government of
India. If we attempted to take it out of their hands, and
to dictate measures from here, we should incur the
calamities which formerly attached [to] the inter-
ference of the Aulic [Council] in Austria.

The only answer therefore that I can give your
Majesty is that we have the fullest confidence in the
Government of India, that they will do their very
utmost to confine the effusion of blood within the
narrowest limits consistent with the safety of India.

206 QUEEN AND HER NATIVE TROOPS [chap, xiii

Viscoimt Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

Wae Office, 25th Oct. 1897. — Lord Wolseley
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and hopes that
her Majesty will approve of the efforts he is now mak-
ing to add to the permanent strength of the army.
More Line battalions and more battalions of Field
Artillery are absolutely necessary, and Lord Lansdowne
is fully aware of this fact. Lord Wolseley is in great
hopes that the Cabinet will agree to what he asks.

He is very sorry that the Government do not intend
to push on to Khartoum this winter. It would be
easy to send out the troops required, at least eight
battalions, one regiment of Cavalry and two batteries
of Field Artillery. Lord Wolseley is much afraid that
any delay in taking Khartoum may give rise to
difficulties with the French on the Upper Nile. The
French, it is known, are very active in that region.
. . . Your Majesty’s humble servant and devoted
soldier, Wolseley.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 26th Oct. 1897. — I am much
troubled by the vexed African question with the
French, and earnestly hope some sort of compromise
can be arrived at without giving in to them.

The conduct of my troops on the Indian frontier is
beyond all praise, and the hardships and difficulties
quite enormous. I think they should be markedly [?]
rewarded without distinction of British and Native.
The Victoria Cross should be bestowed equally on both,
and the distinction of race, so long and I think un-
duly [?] maintained, should disappear on such occasions.

Lord George Hamilton only wants your and my
support to carry this out.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

27th Oct. 1897. — ^Humble duty. Your Majesty’s
telegram of yesterday. I wiU do my best to obey your

1897] DEATPI OF DUCHESS OF TECK 207

Majesty’s commands, in the wisdom of which I
entirely concur.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

BalmoeaIi, 27f/i Oct. 1897. — While I was dressing,
Beatrice asked to see me. She said there were sad
news about a near relative : it was dear Mary Teck ;
and she read me the following telegram : “ My

beloved Mary died at 3 a.m. this morning from
effects of another operation. May, Alge, and I were
with her at the end. Teck.” “We are all heartbroken.
You will feel for us in our misery. May.” The whole
thing is too grievous and sad.

Quantities of telegrams arrived, and I had many to
send about beloved Mary. It seems like a horrible
dream. She was so warm-hearted and kind, and ever
ready to help in doing good, so universally popular and
beloved by high and low. Poor, unhappy Franz, I
cannot bear to think of him. She was so courageous
and full of spirit, so loyal, and such a charming com-
panion, talking so well, and such a good mimic. To
me and mine she was always so full of love and
sympathy. Came up early to my room, and Beatrice
read despatches and telegrams to me. Poor Franz
telegraphed to me, enquiring whether dear Mary
might be laid to rest in St. George’s Chapel, as she had
a great aversion to Kew. I answered of course in the
affirmative, and am glad to think it will be so.

[Copy.] The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 29th Oct. 1897. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
submits that at his reception at the Foreign Office on
Wednesday, the German, Italian, Spanish, and Turkish
Ambassadors, and the French Minister, expressed in
feeling terms their sincere sorrow for the terrible
loss which your Majesty and the Royal Family had
sustained in the death of Princess Mary, and bore full
and abundant testimony to her admirable qualities
"Tid nttrnfitiVP chTacter. The Germ'’n 3nd Tt' lian

208 “A NATIONAL BEREAVEMENT” [chap, xm

Ambassadors, who had been here for a considerable
time, had been deeply impressed by her charm.

In conveying these expressions of feeling Lord
Salisbury ventures respectfully to offer to your
Majesty his sincere sympathy on the loss of one who
was bound to you by more than one close tie of
relationship, and was a most devoted friend and
subject. She was singularly beloved, and she de-
served it ; for there were few who had not witnessed
or known some instance of her unselfish and thought-
ful kindness. Her death is universally felt as a
national bereavement.

[Draft.] Queen Victoria to Viscount Wolseley.

Windsor Castle, Nov. 1897. — The Queen thanks
Lord Wolseley for his letter. She most cordially
approves of Lord Wolseley’s efforts to increase the
strength of the Army in both Artillery and Infantry.
The Queen will speak to Lord Salisbury on the sub-
ject. She only hopes that the men will be forth-
coming for the proposed increase.

The Queen would certainly prefer, were it possible,
to go to Khartoum this winter. But we have so much
on hand elsewhere that it might be questionable
policy to send a large force out of England, and she
fears that there would be difficulties as to the cost of
such an expedition.

She would be glad to hear how the formation of the
two new battalions of Guards is progressing.

The fighting on the Indian frontier [has been]
most severe and harassing, and the conduct of the
British and Native troops has been quite heroic.
But the losses have been very sad, [and the] number of
officers who have fallen very distressing. The Queen
is most grieved at this.

Ecctracts from the Queen^s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 14ith Nov. 1897. — Saw Lord
Salisbury. He seemed well and much happier about
Lady Salisbury. We talked of India, of the sad loss

1897] JUBILEE INSTITUTE FOR NURSES 209

of life and the heroism of our troops, but he thought
there was great want of clear knowledge of what had
been impending, and lack of preparation. Also he
discussed the absolute necessity of increasing the
Army, which was being so constantly drawn upon ;
the troubles with France about Egypt, which he hoped
would be overcome. Mr. Chamberlain is a httle too
warlike, and hardly sees the other side of the question.
Lord Salisbury said he had heard that it would be im-
possible for us to get to Khartoum this winter, as the
railway was not finished, which I much regret. We
talked of dear Mary and of what a loss she was. Touched
on the impasse between Turkey and Greece, etc., etc.

19th Nov . — Helen came to luncheon, and was
present with me afterwards, when I received a depu-
tation of the “ Girls’ Friendly Society,” which consisted
of Mrs. Maclagan (wife of the Archbishop of York),
Mrs. Campion, Miss Grosvenor, and Mrs. Chaloner
Chute. Mrs. Campion read an address, which was
very prettily worded and enclosed in a most beauti-
fully embroidered cover, and presented by Mrs.
Maclagan. Miss Grosvenor then handed me the
£1,100 which the girls all over the world have collected
as a donation to the Fund for the Queen Victoria’s
Jubilee Institute for Nurses, started by Bertie in
celebration of this year. The pocket or bag in which
all the bank notes were put was also very beautifully
embroidered. The whole sum has been collected in
shillings and pence,

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Earl of Elgin.

Claremont, Esher, 19th Nov. 1897. — . . . The
fighting on the frontier continues very severe, and
causes the Queen much pain and anxiety, as the loss
of life is so great and distressing and the loss of officers
most serious. Can nothing be done in the way of
dress to make the officers less conspicuous ? As we do
not wish to retain any part of the country, is the con-
tinuation and indefinite prolongation of these punitive
expeditions really quite justifiable at the cost of many

210 THE QUEEN AND THE ARMY [chap, xiii

valuable lives ? It seems to the Queen a great
question whether it is quite justifiable, but she would
be glad to know the Viceroy’s opinion on this very
serious subject.

The Queen cannot help fearing that there was a
want of preparation, of watchfulness, and of know-
ledge of what the wild tribes were planning, which
ought not to have been.

The Queen Empress is much troubled about the
plague also, which seems to be increasing. The
Queen feels much for the great anxiety which aU this
must cause Lord and Lady Elgin. The fighting
seems of an unexampled severity, and the continual
firing into the camp at night most harassing.

But she is in unbounded admiration of the bravery,
courage, and heroism of her troops, British and Native,

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Duke of Devonshire.

\Co'py.^ Windsor Castle, 26i/j November 1897.

Dear Duke of Devonshire, — In this hastily
prepared memorandum,^ I have endeavoured to note
some details which the Queen thought should be
mentioned to you. They may serve to amplify a
letter which by the Queen’s wishes I wrote yesterday
to the Prime Minister pointing out in general terms
what are her Majesty’s feelings with regard to the
present state of the Army.

1 The memorandum covered much ground, arranged under separate
headings : Administration — mainly dealing -with the War Office and its
civilian clerks, “ many of whom ‘ have been thirty years in the office and
are motheaten with tradition, red tape, and obstruction,’ and in whose
hands any military officer must be on first taking office.” What is
expected of the Army — ^there should be a definite agreement on our
general military policy. The Cardwell System — ^has it been proved suc-
cessful ? Short service and Reservists — ^might not service in India be
postponed till the soldier is twenty, and extended till he is twenty-eight 1
Should not Mr. Cardwell’s intentions as to third battalions and training
of recruits at depot centres be put in force? Has his system been
carried out in its entirety ? Re-enlisting — ^why not increase the
Marines, for which service recruits are easily obtained, and let them
garrison coaling stations instead of infantry ? Among other suggestions,
permit re-engagement of discharged soldiers without refunding deferred
pay, and perhaps do away with deferred pay altogether. Artillery —
serious deficiency in guns ; and reserve forces practicafiy without artillery.

1897] A CABINET COMMITTEE SITTING 211

I feel that I ought to make it clearly understood
that these notes in no way partake of the nature of
instructions, _ but are merely some views and sug-
gestions which have reached the Queen through
various sources upon the accuracy of which H.M. can
olfer no opinion. Yours very truly, Arthue Bigge.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge,

Hatjfield House, November 1897.

Dear Sib Arthur, — I am much obliged to you
for your letter of yesterday’s date, conveying her
Majesty’s wishes in regard to her army.

I will lay the letter before the Cabinet to-morrow.
Yours faithfully, Salisbury.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Duke of Devonshire,
[Copy.] Windsor Castle, 7th December 1897,

Dear Duke of Devonshire, — The Queen desires
me to ask you to let her hear what progress is being
made by the Cabinet Committee upon the Army.
As you will remember when you were here last week,
her Majesty told me to say that she thought there
ought to be a Military Committee. In reply I
informed H.M. that I gathered thg.t you thought this
would delay matters. The Queen, however, thinks
that you should insist upon hearing the opinions of
some of the regimental officers before coming to any
decision as to the recommendations to be adopted for
remedying the present unsatisfactory state of affairs
in the Army. . . . A. B.

The Duke of Devonshire to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Devonshire House, Piccadilly, W., 8th December 1897.

My dear Bigge, — , . . The Committee have had
several meetings, and will have some recommendations
to make to the Cabinet, though the detailed changes
proposed may not be ready quite yet.

I will of course inform the Cabinet of the Queen’s
desire that the opinions of regimental officers should
be further heard before any decisions are arrived at,

ITT — ^ R

212 DEATH OF SIR L. GARDINER [cnAP, xm

but the Committee certainly believe that everything
which they can tell us has been already brought out
by Lord Wantage’s and other enquiries. I remain,
yours sincerely, Devonshire.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 15th Dec. 1897. — Saw Lord
Salisbury before dinner for some little time. We
talked on all subjects. Peace was to be urged, but
the finding of a Prince for Crete was a great difficulty.
Petrovitch was refused by the Prince of Montenegro.
Africa and France were a great difficulty. The
French were in the wrong, and yet would not admit
it, and we could not give up our rights. Mr. Chamber-
lain was very strong on this point. India and its
frontier, with the sad continuing losses it entails.
Lord Salisbury thinks a terrible and anxious business.

Heard that land old Sir Lyndoch Gardiner had
passed peacefully away. I am extremely sorry, for
he is the last of my contemporaries, of former happy
old Claremont days. We were children together, and
he was only a year younger than me, and wonderfully
active up to the last, though he had been failing a little
in health these last two years. He had given up being
Equerry barely two years ago. He was excessively
charitable, and the promoter of many good works. He
was a clever man in many ways, and used to translate
German poetry into Enghsh very well. His parents
had been great friends of aU of us, and had been about
Princess Charlotte. He will be a great loss.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

18th Dec. 1897. — ^Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully submits that a
Cabinet was held yesterday at the Foreign Office.
It was entirely devoted to the question of the Army.
The decisions arrived at were not definitive, because
they may always require to be revised in order to
adapt them to the financial position of the Chancellor
of the Exchequer at the end of the financial year.

213

1897] CABINET ARMY SCHEME

But the general result of a long discussion was that
the Cabinet accepted the scheme laid before it by
Lord Lansdowne and the Duke of Devonshire. Many
of them did not do so willingly, because a consider-
able aversion to the linked battalion system was
expressed and felt. But there was no one in the
Cabinet acquainted with War Office details except
Lord Lansdowne and the Duke of Devonshire ; and
therefore no one was in a position to produce an
alternative scheme.

At all events the scheme that was accepted presents
a considerable improvement. Its rough features are,
that ten battalions are to be added to the Army, and
some eighty men to each of the existing battalions ;
that the threepence for groceries shall cease to be
deducted, that is to say, that the pay of the soldier
shall be increased by about a quarter ; that deferred
pay shall be reduced, and that a discharged soldier
shall be allowed to re-enlist without repaying it ; and
that the battalions shall be linked in fours instead of
in couples, so that three may in emergency go abroad
and only one stay at home. There were many smaller
provisions, but these indicate their general drift. The
Army will be larger and better paid, and the Cardwell
system will be rendered rather more elastic. But the
Cardwell system remains still there.

The Cabinet meets on this subject again in Janu-
ary to make the final dispositions.

[Cop^.] Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Salisbury.

19 th December 1897.

My dear Lord Salisbury, — The Queen desires
me to thank you for your letter of yesterday reporting
what had taken place in yesterday’s Cabinet with
regard to the Army. H.M. is of course glad to hear
of the proposed substantial increase to the Army, and
nobly trusts that the necessary men will be forthcom-
ing. She is also much pleased to know that the soldier
is really to get a free ration.

But H.M. wishes me to point out what seems

214 QUEEN NOT SATISFIED [chap, xiii

unsatisfactory to her in the Government deliberations
upon this most important question of Army Reform,
viz. that, as you say there is no one in the Cabinet
except Lord L[ansdowne] and Duke of D[evonshire]
who are acquainted with the War Office details, the
proposals for delivering what is looked for as a final
solution of the difficulty, involving a large increase to
the Army expenditure, is practically confided to two
Members assisted by the W.O. authorities. The
Queen therefore again reverts to what she previously
desired me to represent to the D[uke] of D[evonshire],
viz. that the Committee ought to have consulted some
“ outside ” opinion. I have told H.M. that the Duke
thought such opinion had already been obtained by
means of the Wantage Committee, and that any
further examination of witnesses may delay matters.

I cannot, however, conceal the fact that the Queen
does not consider the whole matter without anxiety.
Yours very truly, A. Bigoe.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

HATiTEiiD House, 20th December 1807.

My deak Sie Aethue, — ^There is only one observa-
tion which I ought to make with reference to the note
I have just received from you. If I understand
rightly, the Committee of Defence which has been
working under the Duke of Devonshire has been in full
communication with the Commander-in- Chief during
its deliberations. They certainly had discretion to
consult anyone they pleased. Yours very truly,
Salisbuey.

Queen Victoria to Sir Arthur Bigge.

OsBOENE, Dec. 1897. — Sir Arthur should tell
Lord Salisbury that Lord Wolseley has the same
views as to this system as the Duke of Devonshire
and Lord Lansdowne, and the names of the Com-
mission or Committee she has heard of are again
people who agree with these two gentlemen. General
Brackenbury, moreover, did all the mischief on the

1897] DUKE OF CONNAUGHT CRITICAL 215

Duke of Devonshire’s very bad Committee, which led
to so much trouble, and he would be of no use. We
want people who will state independent views.
Nothing will else be done.

The Duke of Connaught to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Bacjshot Park, Surrey, Q,2nd December 1897.

My dear Bigge, — ^Pray thank the Queen for
letting you send me Lord Salisbury’s letter. I am
glad the Government propose to do something, but I
fear that much more will be required if our Army is to
be really efficient, A bona fide free ration is only
what a soldier is told he will get before he enlists,
and it will certainly remove a first excuse for com-
plaint.

I have never liked the deferred pay ; theoretically
no doubt it sounds a first-rate thing, hut practically it
has acted as an incentive for many men to leave the
colours who would otherwise stay on for their twelve
years and make most valuable soldiers. I am especi-
ally glad to hear that it is proposed to let a portion
of the men rejoin from the Reserve without paying
back their deferred pay. I am very doubtful how the
grouping of battalions into four will help Army
organisation, but I believe the Civil authorities at the
War Office are keen about it. I won’t bother you with
a longer letter, as you are fully acquainted already
with my views on Army organisation.

I saw Wolseley yesterday at Sandhurst ; he seemed
very bitter against the action and views of the civil
officials at the War Office. I hear on all sides that the
men in several of the British regiments, employed in
the Frontier war, were found too young and wanting
in stamina and hence in courage. I don’t know
what the sick rate has been, but I am told that some
of the regiments are tremendously reduced, and that
other regiments are being moved up to take their
places.

With all the compliments of the season, Believe
me, yours very sincerely, Arthur.

216

LORD ELGIN ON FRONTIER WARS [chap, xiii

The Earl of Elgin to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Calcutta, 23rd Dec. 1897. —
The Viceroy presents his humble duty to your Majesty,
and has the honour to acknowledge your Majesty’s
letter of 19th November. He hopes he will be
excused for not having answered this letter last week.
He was anxious to have from Sir W. Lockhart a reply
to a communication he had addressed to him before
endeavouring to deal with the very important ques-
tions raised by your Majesty.

Your Majesty asks the Viceroy to express his
opinion on the point whether “ the continuation and
indefinite prolongation of these punitive expeditions
is really justifiable at the cost of many valuable
lives.” No one regrets more than the Viceroy the
distressing losses sustained, but it was clearly foreseen,
when it was determined to send an expedition against
the Afridis, that there were many circumstances which
combined to make it dangerous. The nature of the
country, so far as known, and the character of the
tribesmen, were enough of themselves to ensure a
stubborn resistance. The Government of India
wished to leave nothing to chance, and they accord-
ingly employed a very strong force, and this, coupled
with the excellent dispositions of Sir W. Lockhart,
prevented the combined opposition at the passes into
Tirah, which had been anticipated, and which might
easily, as the experience of Dargai showed, have
resulted in desperate fighting, and severe losses. A
weaker force in a single day might have had to incur a
wholly disproportionate sacrifice to achieve the same
results.

But our very success in preventing or overcoming
combined opposition has resulted in the more recalci-
trant sections of the tribes adopting a gueriUa form of
warfare which is often the most harassing to disci-
plined troops, and which puts it out of the power of
the most skilful General to bring about a final and
conclusive issue. Sir W. Lockhart writes th-’t he is in

1897] THINKS CAMPAIGN JUSTIFIABLE 217

great hope that his next series of operations will bring
the Afridis to their knees. He will visit their winter
settlements, and the Viceroy has in former letters
explained the effect upon the tribe of action of this
kind. But if they still hold out there will probably be
no alternative but to wait till the winter is over and if
necessary resume the offensive then.

This being in brief the military situation, your
Majesty asks if the Viceroy considers the campaign
justifiable. He very respectfully represents that to
abstain from carrying out the avowed objects of the
campaign, however protracted or regrettable the delay,
would result in consequences of the most serious
nature. In the case of the Afridis the quarrel was of
their own seeking, there had been no provocation when
they wantonly broke the conditions of a long-estab-
lished agreement. No one can allege that the terms
on which peace is offered to them are severe. But
your Majesty long ago pointed out to the Viceroy that
it was necessary not only to settle the present quarrel,
but to prevent if possible the occurrence of future
outbreaks. The Viceroy does not hesitate to say
that, though it is impossible to provide absolutely
for the future, there is one condition which would
be fatal to any hope of continued peace, and that is
to leave in the minds of the tribesmen a doubt of
the power and determination of the Government of
India to insist on demands they have deliberately
put forward. Once compel them to see that a re-
sistance, however stubborn, will certainly be overcome
• sooner or later, and there is more chance of the lesson
of this year abiding in their memories for some space
of time. . . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.']

2Srd Dec. 1897. — Humble duty. I have tele-
graphed to Lord Cromer to ensure requisite assistance
to the troops in the front if it is required.

218 COLONIAL PREMIER AND QUEEN [chap, sm

He and the Sirdar must have a perfectly free hand,
or we may get into dangerous confusion.

Sir Gordon Spriggs to Sir Arthur Bigge.

TREASimy, Cape Town, December 1897.

Dear Sir, — ^Your letter of 6th inst. accompanied
by the portrait of her Majesty, sent to me by the
desire of the Queen, was delivered this morning, I
recognise in the portrait a faithful representation of
her Majesty as I saw her in front of St. Paul’s Cathe-
dral on 22nd of June. No gift in the power of her
Majesty to bestow could be more highly valued by me
personally or as the humble Prime Minister of the Cape
Colony.

I have to request that you will convey to the Queen
my grateful thanks for the thoughtful consideration
shown by her Majesty in sending me this token of her
regard, which will be for ever appreciated by my
children’s children. Yours very faithfully, J. Gordon
Sprigg.

Extract from the Queeri’s Journal.

Osborne, 3lst Dec. 1897. — This is the last day of
this ever memorable and eventful year, which can
never be forgotten and was so gratifying to me, but
also it has brought such misfortune and sorrows. I
have lost four dear friends, including dearest Mary,
and my good, faithful maid, Annie Macdonald.

^ Prime Minister of Cape Colony.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO CHAPTER XIV

Foe Queen Victoria and her people the outstanding event
of the year 1898 was the recovery for civilisation of the
Soudan, which had been evacuated in 1885 after General
Gordon’s death. At the close of 1897 the dervishes began
to advance and to threaten the territory, reaching to Dongola
and Berber, which had been regained since 1896. On 1st
January, 1898, Sir Herbert Kitchener asked for British troops
to be sent up the Nile and for reinforcements from home.
Then on 8th April his British and Egyptian forces stormed
the strong zariba in which Mahmoud, the Khalifa’s lieuten-
ant, had entrenched himself on the river Atbara, and gained a
complete victory. The decisive battle of the campaign was
fought on 2nd September under the walls of Omdurman,
where the dervishes charged again and again with the most
reckless courage, only to be overwhelmed and slaughtered
wholesale by the Sirdar’s steady troops. The Khalifa
himself escaped. Two days later the Egyptian and British
flags were hoisted over the ruined Palace of Khartoum, and
a religious service was held where Gordon was killed.

The news was received at home with profound and uni-
versal satisfaction, anft the Queen was the interpreter of
public feeling in cabling at once to offer Sir Herbert Kitchener
a peerage. The cable did not reach him for more than a
fortnight, largely because he immediately proceeded farther
up the Nile with a flotilla of gunboats and a considerable body
of troops. After disposing of a dervish force and camp on
the way, he found at Fashoda, some 600 miles up, a French
party, under M. Marchand, of eight white men and 100
Senegalese, who had come across from the French Congo and
had hoisted the French flag, but who were at the mercy of any
serious dervish attack. As M. Marchand refused to retire
without orders from his Government, the Sirdar, without in-
terfering with the French flag, hoisted the Egyptian flag, and,
leaving a sufficient force to defend the post, returned to Khar-
toum to report.

There was acute tension for some five or six weeks between

219

220 INTRODUCTORY NOTE [chap, xiv

the British and Erench Governments. Lord Salisbury had
warned Paris in 1897 that his Government entirely adhered
to the declaration of Lord Rosebery’s Government that a
Erench advance into the Nile valley would be regarded by
England as an unfriendly act ; and, after the reoccupation
of Khartoum, he instructed Sir Edmund Monson to inform
M. Delcassd, the Erench Eoreign Minister, that the territories
subject to the Khalifa had passed by right of conquest to
the British and Egyptian Governments, and that this right
was not open to discussion. From this position he never
swerved ; and he was firmly and unanimously supported by
British public opinion, Lord Rosebery’s strong approval
being echoed by Sir William Harcourt and other Liberal
leaders. M. Delcassd presented no consistent case in reply ;
but persistently evaded a decision, the honour of the French
flag being his main concern, Events at the end of October
made it easier for him to yield. M. Maxchand quitted his
post on his own responsibihty, leaving a subordinate in
command, and came down the Nile to Cano on the way to
Paris ; and Lord Kitchener arrived in England, and was
acclaimed with enthusiasm. The City of London gave him
its freedom on 4th November ; and at the banquet on that
evening Lord Salisbury was able to announce that the French
Government had come to the conclusion that the occupation
of Fashoda was of no value to them and must cease.

British policy achieved this year another important dipIo“
matio success in the settlement of the Cretan question.
Germany and Austria, who had clogged the wheels of the Euro-
pean concert in 1897, withdrew their ships in April, thus
leaving England, Russia, France, and Italy to deal with the
problem. The admirals, under the leadership of the British
admiral, Sir Gerald Noel, were engaged in negotiations over
proposals of administrative reform, when on 6th September
an outbreak of Bashibazouks in Candia led to a massacre of
Christian inhabitants and the killing of the British Vice-Con-
sul and several British soldiers and sailors, and was not sub-
dued till the town had been bombarded by the fleet. The
admirals secured the disarmament of the Mussulmans and the
punishment of the ringleaders. The four Powers by an
ultimatum forced the Sultan to withdraw the Turkish
troops, and then, on Russia’s motion, appointed Prince George
of Greece High Commissioner of Crete. The Prince was
welcomed by Mohammedans as well as Greeks on his arrival
in December ; and public opinion in England was satisfied.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE

221

1898]

These achievements threw into the shade what had
appeared earlier in the year to be the weakness of British
policy in the Far East. In March Russia obtained from
China a lease for twenty-five years of Port Arthur (which
she proposed to fortify and turn into a naval port) and of
Talienwan, both in the Liaotung Peninsula, together with the
right to construct a railway across Manchuria to connect
these ports with the Trans-Siberian line. In the face of this
open breach of Russian promises, the British Government
went no farther than to register an emphatic protest, and to
obtain, as a make-weight, the lease of Wei-hai-wei.

In the British Empire, trouble again threatened from
South Africa. An Afrikander Bond Ministry, under Mr.
Schreiner, obtained office at the Cape. In the Transvaal
Mr. ICruger, who was re-elected President by a large majority,
persistently refused the franchise to the Uitlanders, and
maintained that the London Convention gave no suzerainty
to the Queen. In Australia a plebiscite revealed a majority
for the proposed Commonwealth in all the Colonies, but one
not legally sufficient to secure the adoption of the scheme.

On the night of 15th February the United States battle-
ship Maine, while lying in the harboiu: of Havana, was des-
troyed by an explosion, and over 250 of her officers and crew
perished. American opinion held — what was never proved
— ^that this was due to a treacherous Spanish submarine
attack ; and the war, which had long threatened between
the United States and Spain over Cuba, broke out in April.
It was quickly over. Two crushing victories by the American
Navy — on 1st May in the Philippine harbour of Manila, and
on 3rd July off Santiago (Cuba) — and a successful American
invasion of the island of Cuba, brought Spain early in August
to sue for peace. By the treaty she gave up all claim to the
sovereignty of Cuba, ceded Porto Rico and her other West
Indian possessions to the United States, and also the Philip-
pines, for which last cession she was paid £4,000,000.
American feeling was grateful to Britain, which had been
the first European Power to proclaim neutrality, and had
discouraged any European intervention.

Both Russia and Germany made serious additions this
year to their naval strength ; but at the end of August the
Tsar surprised the world by issuing an invitation to the
Powers to join in a Peace Conference which should bring
about a general reduction of armaments, or at least a cessa-
tion in their increase. Sympathetic replies were sent. The

222 INTRODUCTORY NOTE [ctap, xiv

German Emperor, accompanied by the Empress, made this
autnmn a spectacular tour to the Holy Land. The Sultan
gave them a brilliant reception at Constantinople on their
way ; and in Jersualem the Emperor not only attended the
consecration of a German Protestant Church, but gratified
the Roman Catholic Germans in Palestine by securing for
their religious use, as a special favour from the Turkish
authorities, a peculiarly sacred site on Mount Zion. On
10th September the Empress of Austria, who had made
friends in Great Britain on the occasions when she came here
to hunt, was assassinated at Geneva by an Italian anarchist.
In the Netherlands there were great rejoicings over Queen
Wilhelmina’s coming of age and enthronement. France was
almost wholly absorbed tlnoughout the year by the Dreyfus
case and the passions roused by it. It was mainly a fight
between the Civil Power and the Army, between justice and
anti-Semitic prejudice, and in the turmoil the Meline Ministry
was succeeded by the Dupuy Ministry. Early in the year
M. Zola issued his famous appeal to the public on Drey-
fus’ behalf, a letter to the President, beginning J’accuse.
Before the close of the year he was an exile in England ;
but Mme Dreyfus had succeeded in persuading the Cour de
Cassation to review her husband’s case, though no decision
had yet been arrived at.

There being so much instability abroad, the British
Parliament was largely occupied with increasing the Army
and rendering it more efficient, and with measures to ensure
that the Navy should reach a two-Power standard — i.e.
should be equal in numbers and superior in power to the fleets
of any two other countries. The principal domestic measure
passed into law was the Irish Local Government Bill, in
the charge of Mr, Gerald Balfour, the Chief Secretary, to
set up County Councils, with certain safeguards, in Ireland.
This year the Liberal Party lost another leader. Sir William
Harcourt, their leader in the Commons, who, since Lord
Rosebery’s resignation in 1896, had practically acted as leader
of the whole party, wrote in December to Mr. Morley that,
as the party was “ rent by sectional disputes and personal
interests,” he proposed to take up “ an independent position
in the House of Commons,” and Mr. Morley sadly expressed
his sympathy and approval-

Two great statesmen passed away, Mr, Gladstone in May,
Prince Bismarck in July. Although both were in retirement,
national mourning in each case was deep and sincere.

CHAPTER XIV
1898

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, \st Jan. 1898. — ^A new year ! I dare
not look forward, but thank God for His merciful
protection and help thus far, and pray that He will
restore peace and harmony to the whole world. May
He preserve all most dear to me, my beloved children
and grandchildren, and all kind friends, keeping all
harm and ill from them ; may my health continue as
good as it is now, for which I am truly thankful !

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Mh Jan. 1898. — ^Did Lord Salisbury notice Sir F.
Grenfell’s ^ telegram begging for “ matured soldiers.”
It is terrible that our small army is in a state to justify
such an appeal from a General responsible for prepar-
ing a campaign. Could any stronger proof be required
of the utter weakness of our system ? The Queen
must insist on her Army being saved from this con-
dition. There should be no immature soldiers in
regiments likely to be sent on service.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

5th Jan, 1898. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully thanks your
Majesty for your note of last night. He fears that the
evil, though a great one, is not easily curable. It

1 Comniandmg the forces in Egypt ; afterwards Lord Grenfell.
The “ matured soldiers ” were required for the further advance of Sir
Herbert Kitchener’s expedition up the Nile.

223

224 ,

THE QUEEN AND THE PRESS [ciiap, xiv

arises from the fact that only a very limited number
of men can be tempted into the service ; and that,
only when they are young. They become matured
soldiers in due time ; but until that time comes
they must be mmature soldiers; and Commanding
Officers will press to obtain as many mature and as
few immature soldiers as possible. Of course, the
short _ service system makes matters worse ; by
diminishing the proportion of mature soldiers. But
the school which defends this system is unhappily
possessed of a great preponderance just now.

Sir Theodore JMartin ^ to Queen Victoria.

31 Onslow Square, S.W., ISth Jan. 1898.~-Sir
Theodore Martin presents his humble duty to the
Queen. He is now able to assure her Majesty that
all the leading Journals will adopt a quite altered tone
towards the Emperor of Germany and the German
people. He has assurances of this from the Standard,
Telegraph, Morning Post, Daily Nem, Daily Chronicle,
the Globe, the St. Jamefs Gazette, and the Pall Mall
Gazette. The Times Editor he hopes to see to-morrow.
They all feel that it would be unwise to create irrita-
tion, especially having regard to the very modified tone
of the leading German papers. Even in to-day’s
papers Sir Theodore reads the good effect of having
called attention to the danger that might arise. He
encloses a paragraph from the Pall Mall Gazette of
last night, which indicates very clearly the attitude
which he feels sure will now he general. Punch has
been very offensive in its treatment of the German
Emperor, but Sir Theodore Martin is not without
hope of getting it to drop its ridicule and caricatures.
They are not liked by the Enghsh public, but must
have been very irritating to the Germans. The blame
will be with Germany, if there is any disturbance of
the conciliatory temper of our principal journalists.

^ A prominent man of letters -who had been honoured by the
friendship of the Queen, at whose desire he had written The Life of the
^Hnce CojisoTt. On this occasion he undertook a conhdential mission
from her Majesty to the Press.

1898] ANGLO-GERMAN IRRITATION 22 S

Sir Theodore had for some time felt uneasy at the
war of sarcasm and invective which was going on
between the papers of the two countries, and it is a
source pf great satisfaction to think that this state of
things is now likely to cease.

lUh Jan. — Sir Theodore Martin . . . has to-day
seen the Editor of The Times, and finds him quite
in accord with the other journalists mentioned in Sir
Theodore’s letter of yesterday. One may therefore
conclude, that everything here is in the right train
now, and will remain so if the German papers will
only be temperate and civil in the future.

It is most unfortunate that there should be very
generally prevailing in this country a very bitter
feeling against the Germans. Everyone whom Sir
Theodore has seen has mentioned this, and none more
emphatically than the Editor of The Times, Com-
mercial rivalry has something to do with it ; but not
very much.

l^th Jan. — Sir Theodore Martin ... is happy
further to report that the Editor of Punch has
promised to follow the same course as the leading
journals. Sir Theodore regards this as very important,
for caricatures are much more mischievous than
newspaper paragraphs.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Jan. 1898. — . . . The question of selecting
the next Viceroy of India is one of some difficulty. . . .

[Lord Salisbury] is disposed to think that there are
two members of the Government, either of whom would
make a good Viceroy, if he would go. The first is Sir
Michael Hicks Beach. It is possible he might go, be-
cause he has suffered much from agricultural distress ;
and the kind of illness he has suffered from is not of
a kind which is made worse by India. He is a very
able man, with a clear judgment, strong resolution,
and a good judge of men. The other is Mr. Curzon.
It would probably be necessary to give him a peerage ;
but that is of small importance, as he must be a Peer

226 THE NEXT VICEROY [ciut. xiv

some day. He is a man, in many respects, of great
ability, as well as of extraordinary industry and know-
ledge. Lord Salisbury has had an opportunity of
observing him closely for two years and a half ; and
is of opinion that his character and powers have
developed with official work. His only fault is
occasional rashness of speech in the House of Com-
mons ; but he would have no temptation to that
error at Calcutta. He has now a strong physique.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, 26th Jan. 1898. — . . . Think it is most
desirable to try to be on best terms with Russia, it
is the only way to keep Germany in check.

Sir E. Monson’s telegram received Friday is very
important. Think a good understanding with Russia
will also keep France quiet. What can have caused
the change in the policy of Russia about Crete ?
Germany behaves very badly.

Pray see Colonel Grierson before he returns.
William has talked openly to him.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

OsBOENE, 2^th Jan. 1898. — Heard when we were
at breakfast from Mr. Forbes that dear old Mrs.
Symon at the shop in the village at Balmoral had
passed away. Though she had recovered so well
while we were there and greeted us as kindly as ever,
she caught a chill a few days ago and was carried off
by bronchitis. We had found her and her good
amusing husband in the village when we first came to
Balmoral in 1848, and we built them their new house
and shop. She was quite an institution ; and every-
one, high and low, used to go and see her.

8Qth J an. — ^Hear that the Sultan absolutely refuses
to hear of George of Greece going to Crete, and does
not mind the grave consequences which may arise
from hi'’ refnr'nl.

1898] QUEEN’S APPRECIATION OF MR. LANG 221

Spoke to [Mr- Lang] i for some time after dinner.
He is a very interesting and clever man, a Scotchman,
and was at Oxford, He has a very hard time at Portsea,
having 40,000 parishioners, and the population is not
very pleasant, particularly the artizans, who are very
difficult, sceptical, and full of prejudices. The sailors
are true and warm-hearted, hut, as well as the soldiers,
somewhat difficult to manage. Mr. Lang has thirteen
curates to assist him, and they all live together.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, SOth Jan. 1898. — The Sultan seems very
determined, backed I suppose by Germany. But will
he be able to resist Russia, France, Italy, and our-
selves if we are united and firm ? Cannot help feeling
anxious about Niger, especially considering agitated
state of French public.

Conclude Russian Government was made aware
of your telegram to Sir N. O’Conor of 21st, stating
that orders had been sent for withdrawal of our
ships from Port Arthur, and made use of it at Pekin.

Fru’ther losses on North-West frontier are very
serious. Surely Sir George Wliite and Sir William
Lockhart ought not both to leave India until matters
are in a more satisfactory condition.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Duke of Norfolk.^
[Draft.] Private. Osbokne, 2nd February 1898.

My dear Duke of Norfolk, — The Queen desires
me to write to you on the following subject.

Lately, a petition bearing the signatures of over
386,000 women in Great Britain and Ireland, including
some of social position, has been presented to H.M.
praying that Convents should be brought under some
sort of public control. It is needless to enumerate the
reasons given in support of this request. Probably
some are exaggerated, others fictitious. But I am

' Then Vicar of Portsea ; Bishop of Stepney 1901-1908, Archbishop
of York 1908-1928, and since 1928 Archbishop of Canterbury.

2 The 15th Duke (1847—1917), the foremost Roman Catholic
layman in England.

ITT— 16

228 CONVENTS AND PUBLIC CONTROL [chap, xiv

sure you will understand that the Queen cannot read
such an appeal relating to the condition of any
of her subjects without a feeling of pain mingled
with anxiety that grievances, if existent, should be
remedied.

H.M. says you are so large-minded in all matters
concerning your Church that she feels safe in turning
to you, privately, for information about this matter,
on which it is, I imagine, not proposed to take official
action, and over which the Queen trusts that anything
like public agitation may be avoided. H.M. has heard
that in more recent days the laws of your Church
have been so far modified as to enable those who,
after having taken vows, find themselves unsuited
to Conventual life to resume their freedom. On the
other hand, the above-mentioned Memorialists main-
tain that this is impossible in the British Isles. . . .

H.M. knows that one of your sisters is a nun ;
and this fact adds to the confidence with which H.M.
seeks for your valuable views upon this important
question. Yours very truly, A. Bigge.

The Duke of Norfolk to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Arukdel Castle, Mh February 1898.

My dear Bigge, — I have received your letter and
I hope you will express to the Queen how much I feel
the delicacy and consideration shown by her Majesty
in dealing in this way with the matter brought before
her. I will do my best to supply the information as
fully as I can.

Will you please send me a copy of the Petition ?
Believe me, yours very truly, Norfolk.^

The Maharajah Holkar to Queen Victoria.

Indore Palace, Sih February 1898.

May it please your Imperial Majesty, — I have
the pleasure to forward for your Majesty’s gracious

^ Sir Arthur Bigge forwarded the Petition, adding : “ Pray under-
stand that the Queen never intended to ask for answers to the various
statements of the memorial, but for your opinion upon the general
question which it raises.”

1898] NEW ZEALAND AND DUKE OF YORK 229

acceptance a small parcel containing sugared tilli
seeds in pursuance of the immemorial custom of the
Hindus on the occasion of the dawn of the Hindu
Solar New Year in token of the highest regard and
esteem that I feel for your Imperial Majesty. I
remain, may it please your Imperial Majesty, Yours
most obediently, Shivajee Rao Holkar.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 2nd Feb. 1898.— Mr, Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to submit a copy of a despatch from the Governor
of New Zealand [Lord Ranfurly] requesting him to lay
before your Majesty and his Royal Highness, the Duke
of York, an invitation from both Houses of Parliament
of New Zealand to their Royal Highnesses the Duke
and Duchess of York to visit New Zealand.

In 1893 a unanimous invitation from all the
Colonies of Australasia was sent to their Royal
Highnesses, and although it could not be accepted
at the time, some hope was held out that their
Royal Highnesses might visit Australia at a later
date.

Mr. Chamberlain has no doubt that, if there were
the least expectation that a similar invitation would
now be accepted, the other Colonies of Australasia
would eagerly join in it, and that the visit of their
Royal Highnesses would be made the occasion for an
unprecedented demonstration of affection to your
Majesty and loyalty to the Throne.

Mr. Chamberlain understands, however, from
Lord Salisbury that your Majesty does not feel able
to approve of the acceptance of this invitation, and
he therefore proposes, with your Majesty’s permission,
to decline it in suitable terms, after consulting the
Duke of York as to the reasons which should be given
and the exact form of the reply.

Mr. Chamberlain humbly begs to be informed if
your Majesty has any instructions to give upon this

280

QUJUKINJ AND DUKE OE XOKK [ciiap. xiv

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

Osborne, 6th Feb. 1898. — The Queen thanks Mr.
Chamberlain for his letter enclosing Lhe despatch
from New Zealand inviting the Duke and Duchess of
York to visit that Colony.

The Queen duly appreciates the loyal and kind
wish of the New Zealanders to see her grandchildren.
But there are very strong reasons against it, which
she feels cannot be disregarded. The Duke of York
is the only surviving son of the Prince of Wales, and
the only available Prince in this country, besides the
Prince of Wales himself and the Duke of Connaught
(both very much overworked) able to perform all that
is expected of them, and to help the Queen, now in her
seventy-ninth year, who has lost the able and affec-
tionate help of her dear son-in-law Prince Henry of
Battenberg. But this is not all. Life is so uncertain,
that the risk of sending the Duke of York so far away
and exposing him to the innumerable dangers of fatigue,
climate, etc., are too great ; and it would indeed be
tempting providence were we to send him so far away.

The Queen cannot but think that Mr. Chamberlain
will understand her strong reasons for declining this
proposal.

Mr. Chamberlain to the Duke of York.

CoLONiAi Office, lOih February 1898.

Sir, — I have the honour to transmit to your Royal
Highness the accompanying copy of a despatch from
the Governor of New Zealand, requesting that I
would convey to her Majesty the Queen and to your
Royal Highness an invitation addressed by the Min-
istry and by both Houses of Parliament to yourself
and to her Royal Highness the Duchess of York to
visit that Colony.

I have duly submitted the matter to the Queen
in a letter, of which a copy is enclosed, and her Majesty
has been graciously pleased to reply in terms which,
as your Royal Highness will perceive, preclude the
possibility of the invitation being accepted.

1898] THE DUKE’S OWN FEELINGS 281

I enclose a draft of the despatch^ which I now
propose to address to the Governor of New Zealand,
if your Royal Highness concurs in its expressions.

I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient
humble servant, J, Chamberlain.

[Copy.] The Duhe of York to Mr. Chamberlain.
Private. York Cottage, SAHEEnjOHAM, lift February 1898.

Dear Mr. Chamberlain, — I have to thank you
for your letter and enclosures concerning the invitation
from the Governor of New Zealand, received this
morning. The last paragraph in the draft of your
intended answer requires a slight alteration, as I
have never yet visited New Zealand (although I
visited each Colony in Australia), and therefore one
cannot say “ renew ” my visit.

1 regret that Lord Ranfm-ly did not see fit to
ascertain from you whether the invitation would be
acceptable or not, before he forwarded the official
invitation, as I now fear that your inevitable answer
may possibly be misinterpreted in the Colony. I
should like to tell you privately that the Duchess and
I would have been quite ready and willing to accept
the invitation and would be so at any time. I know
the Queen has very strong views on the subject, as
we have seen by her letter, and of course her wishes
are law. . . .

Mr. Henry White^ to the Duke of York.^

American Embassy, 20th February 1898.

SiE,_I have received telegraphic instructions
from the Secretary of State at Washington to convey
to your Royal Highness and to the Duchess of York

' The draft despatch contained the substance of the Queen’s letter
to Mr. Chamberlain, and added : “ The D^e of York desires me to
add an expression of the ■warm thanks of himself and the Duchess for
the invitation, and to say that he sincerely regrets he is unable to renew
his visit to New Zealand, and to bring his wife to see a country which he
remembers 'with great pleasure and affection.”

2 Served for many years as U.S. Secretaiy of Embassy m London j
afterwards U.S. Ambassador, first to Italy and then to Prance.

2 Sent by the Duke of York to the Queen.

232

DUKE OF YORK AND U.S, NAVY [chap, xiy

an expression of the sincere thanks of my Government
and of our Navy for the kind words of condolence
with them in the terrible disaster to the Maine,
which Captain Keppel communicated to me on be-
half of your Royal Highnesses.

I am directed furthermore to add that the Navy
especially appreciates the sympathy of so eminent a
sailor as your Royal Highness in the calamity which
has befallen it.

I have the honour to be, Sir, your Royal High-
ness’s most obedient servant, Heney White.

Private. Memorandum by the Duke of Norfolk.

2Qth Feb. 1898.® — . . . The fact remains that,
whereas a great number of Roman Catholic girls in
England at the present day enter convents, their
relations are perfectly satisfied with the condition of
affairs. I need not say that I know a very great
number of Catholics who have daughters and sisters
who are nuns. I know hardly a Catholic home of
any position in the country which has not at least one
representative in a convent (I do not suggest they are
all in cloistered orders). Among my own personal
friends, I may remark that sisters or daughters of the
following have entered convents : Lord Arundell of
Wardour, Lord Gainsborough, Lord Abingdon, Lord
Denbigh, Lord Morris, the Lord Chief Justice [Lord
Russell of Killowen], Mr. Justice Day, Mr. Justice
Mathew, Lord Walter Kerr, Sir Humphrey de Trafford.
Two of my own sisters have done so, two of Lord
Clifford’s, three of Lord Petre’s, four of Lord Herries ’ ;
and there are very many others personally Icnown
to me. In the old Catholic families and in the families
of those who have joined the Roman Cathohc Church
this is alike the case.

' The blowing up of the United States battleship Maine in Havana
harbour, which brought on the war between the United States and
Spain. See Introductory Note.

“ In the first part of the Memorandum, the Duke of Norfolk detailed
the careful arrangements made by the authorities of his Church for the
control and supervision of convents. We print the conclusion of the
Mptti nr'* n H 1 1 m .

1898] DUKE OF NORFOLK ON CONVENTS 233

Yet I have never heard from any one of these
fathers and brothers a single suggestion of anxiety
as to the safety and well-bemg of those whom they
have allowed to go into the cloister. It sometimes
happens that parents or brothers, from reasons of
affection, sometimes, perhaps, from more worldly
sentiments, regret the step their relation is about to
take, and even endeavour to prevent their taking it.
But even from them I have never heard the smallest
suggestion that they did not feel perfectly secure as to
the future well-being of their relative, so far as free-
dom and happiness are concerned. It is our common
experience that those who have gone forth from their
homes and given up everything to join the religious
state appear to have won for themselves, even in
this world, a happiness to which we cannot hope to
attain.

But it is not only our personal communications
with our relations who are inmates of convents which
convince us of the absence of any need for State
interference. We have among us many friends who,
having spent a part of their lives as nuns, have come
to the conclusion that they were not called to the
religious state, and have returned to the world.
Some of these have done so by their own wish ; others
because their superiors did not feel that they were
suited to the religious state. Many of the latter,
especially, deeply regret the fact and the decision to
which their superiors came ; but from no one of them,
nor from any relation of any one of them, have I ever
heard the least suggestion that the liberty or the well-
being of any single inmate of the convent was unduly
hampered or restrained. On the other hand, I may
remark that there are cases of women who have been
in convents delivering lectures and publishing books
as to pretended revelations of convent life. I beheve
I am justified in saying that in no one such case has
the character of the individual been found to bear
the test of investigation.

It is not surprising, therefore, that there is no

284 FEELING OF ROMAN CATHOLICS [chap, xtv

question wliich. more thoroughly arouses the indig-
nation and more deeply wounds the feeling of Catholics
in this country than the suggestion that our convents
require the inspection or the control of the State.
It is not only that as Catholics we resent the suggestion
that our own ecclesiastical authorities are incom-
petent, or unwilling to insist on proper safeguards ;
but we naturally feel it, to put it in mild language,
an astounding impertinence that we should be told
we are wanting in proper care for the happiness and
well-being of those nearest and dearest to us. I have
no wish to criticise the perhaps well-meant anxiety of
those who are promoting this movement of enquiry,
but I own that I resent the suggestion that their care
and affection for our daughters and sisters are greater
than our own.

The communities themselves would most deeply
resent any such interference as is suggested. The
old established orders cling with all the glory of long
tradition to everything that pertains to their rule
and the regulations which ensure that it shall be
properly observed ; and the suggestion that, because
as free subjects they have banded themselves together
for what they believe to be a righteous and holy
object, they have thereby justified their fellow-country-
men in regarding them as needing the control and
interference of the State and as unable to judge for
themselves or afraid to appeal if necessary to their
friends, is regarded by them as a cruel impertinence
and injury, and an uncalled-for violation of their
privacy and freedom.

But there is one form of inspection which every
convent would welcome with joy. The gate of the
cloister is open to the Queen, and if her Majesty
would graciously use her royal prerogative she would
rejoice the hearts of those who yield to none of her
subjects in loyalty and love. Her Majesty could
then converse with our nuns and look into their lives,
and her heart would be gladdened by what she would
learn of the happiness and peace tq he found in these

1898] THE QUEEN REASSURED 235

sacred homes from which so many prayers rise for
her to God. Noefolk.

\Cox>y,'\ Sir Arthur Bigge to the Duke of Norfolk.

WiNDSoa Castus, 1s( March 1898.

My deae Duke, — The Queen desires me to let
you know how grateful she is to you for your Memo,
upon the Petition on suggested State Control of
Convents.

H.M, has read it with deep interest, and says it
has made her feel much more comfortable and reas-
sured upon the general question. H.M. fully appre-
ciates the fact that the views given are your own
without your having submitted the matter to official
consideration.

You are at liberty to mention it privately to
Cardinal Vaughan. Yours very truly, A. B.

Bishop Davidson to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Fabnham Castus, Sukeey, eth March 1898.

My deae Bigge, — I have read the Duke of Nor-
folk’s memorandum with very great interest. He puts
his case admirably, and on the whole I agree with him
in thinking it undesirable that a Bill should be intro-
duced (even if any Government was prepared to do so).
But he certainly leaves some points untouched. . . .

On the whole the Duke has the balance of argument
on his side. Ever yours, Randall Winton.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, lOih March 1898.— Mr.
Balfour with his humble duty to your Majesty begs
humbly to inform your Majesty that Naval estimates
occupied the whole evening. These estimates pro-
vide the unexampled sum of twenty-three and a half
millions for the naval service. Yet these estimates,
gigantic as they are, do not seem to be in excess of
our requirements ; indeed. Sir C. Dilke, Lord C.
Beresford, and other critics maintained to-night that
they are if anything inadequate. . . . Perhaps the
most remarkable picture of the debate was the sense

286 QUEEN’S EXPERIENCE IN CHANNEL [chap, xiv

of uneasiness pervading the various speeches, I mean
the sense that we were passing through a period of
national difficulty and crisis, which might at no
distant date require us to appeal to our material
power, and first of all of course the Navy.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

“ Victoria and Albert,” Cherbourg, 11/A
March 1898. — ^Arrived here at 4.30 after a rough
disagreeable crossing, which tried me a good deal,
though I was not sick. We had been told that the sea
would be perfectly smooth, but it began rolling soon
after I went below, and in the middle of the Channel
there was one lurch just as if the ship had had a
blow, the port hole burst half open, the sea came in,
and the chairs were sent spinning. The maids,
steward, and footmen all rushed in, in a great state,
and found part of the cabin full of water. I was
taken in the rolling chair across to my bedroom,
where I got on to the sofa, feeling much upset. Was
very thankful when we got into Cherbourg at last.
We had been quite misinformed about the weather.

The Queen Regent of Spain to Queen Victoria,
{Translation.}

Vtth March 1898. — . . . Full of trust in you I
am writing to explain my difficult position, convinced
that you will support me with your powerful help
and good advice. So far Spain has struggled alone
against all difficulties and overcome them one after
another. Now comes the war with Cuba : all this
our poor country has done and without foreign aid,
she has given her children for the fatherland, her
money for the war, and is even now ready for every
sacrifice. We should long ago have brought the war
in Cuba to an end, had America remained neutral,
but she continually sent money, munitions, and
weapons to the rebels ; and now, when the insurrec-
tion is nearly over, the Americans intend to provoke
us and bring about a war, and this I would avoid at all

1898] QUEEN MARIA CHRISTINA’S APPEAL 237

costs. But there are limits to everything, and I
cannot let my country be humbled by America. . . .
The Committee of the so-called Cuban Republic is
recognised and supported by the Government in
New York, and its members are received in official
circles as representatives of Cuba, But for this
protection by America, the insurrection in Cuba
would have been long ago suppressed. . . .

Until now I have not troubled anybody with my
affairs, and I only do so now in order to preserve peace.
I have applied to the Emperor of Austria, who prom-
ised me to approach the other Powers in order that
common action may be taken for the preservation of
peace ; but I wished to address myself to you at the
same time to beg you not to deny me your powerful
protection. I know how with the greatest kindness
you always interest yourself in my poor fatherless
son — for his sake I beg you to help me. It would
so distress me if England were not at one with the
other Great Powers in this matter ! . . .

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 21st March 1898. — Feehng a good deal
better. Louisa A[ntrim], Sir E. Monson, Lord James,
the Bishop of Ripon, and Sir F. Edwards dined. Sir E.
Monson hoped things were likely to improve between
us and the French, Lord James also hoped this, and
that various other matters would come right. He
thought people ought not to be unreasonable about
some of the demands made by China. I observed I
could not quite understand why nobody was to have
anything anywhere but ourselves, in which he quite
concurred,

Mr. Balfour'^ to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

22nd March 1898, — Humble duty. At the Cabinet
held to-day . . . instructions to her Majesty’s Am-

^ Lord Salisbury had gone to his villa at Beaulieu for his health,
and Mr. Balfour was presiding at Cabinet Councils and acting as Foreign
Secretary.

288 POET AETIIUR AND WEI-HAI-WEI [cuap, xiv

bassador at St. Petersburg expressing strong disap-
probation, on the part of her Majesty’s Government,
of the occupation of Port Arthur were agreed to after
long discussion.

Confidential instructions to her Majesty’s Minister
at Pekin were also determined on. The Yamen are
to be requested not to alienate Wei-hai-wei and, if
it is to he alienated, to give Great Britain the refusal
of the place.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

CiMiEZ, March, 1898. — Lenchen and Beatrice,
who joined me at tea, had been to see Affie on board
the Surprise. He is not [at] all well, having hardly
recovered from his recent illness, and is now unfor-
tunately threatened with another complication, which
may necessitate an operation.^

[Cypher Telegram.] Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

26th March 1898. — . . . Cabinet met yesterday
and deliberated for more than three hours and a half
until 7 p.m. The discussion was entirely confined to
the policy to be pursued in the Far East ; her Majesty’s
Ministers held the opinion, in which Mr. Balfour knows
that Lord Salisbury concurs, that it was not worth
while to promote a war with Russia in order to keep
her out of Port Arthur; her influence at Pekin
depends principally on her land position, and, though
the possession of Port Arthur may augment it, the
difference is not sufficient to justify hostilities. It
was, however, thought desirable that Great Britain
should maintain her position in the Gulf of Pechili,
and in the neighbourhood of Pekin, by closing 'with
the Chinese offer of the reversion of Wei-hai-wei.

[Cypher Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Mr. Balfour.

CiMiEz, 27th March 1898. — I am much pleased
with the decision of the Cabinet which I thoroughly
approve. It is I think important that the world at
large should not have the impression that we will not

1 The operation was successfully performed on 26th March.

1898] SPAIN AND UNITED STATES 289

let anyone but ourselves have anything, while at the
same time we must secure our rights and influence.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 1st April 1898. — ^Drove through the old
town to the quay and went on board the Surprise,
which had been moored alongside, so that I could
easily walk up a gangway. Went into Affie’s cabin,
which is small and dark, and sat by his bed for half an
hour. Thankful to have found him really much
better.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Beaulieu, 1st April 1898. — Lord Salisbury with
his humble duty respectfully tenders his warmest
thanks for your Majesty’s gracious kindness to him.

The Spanish question is very grave ; and Lord
Salisbury would not like to advise your Majesty to
give any undertaking to assist the Queen of Spain
without consulting his colleagues ; for any com-
munication from this country to the United States, in
the way of remonstrances, might arouse their suscept-
ible feelings and produce a condition of some danger,
without any corresponding advantage. At the same
time Lord Salisbury thinks that your Majesty would
not refuse to join in any course taken by all the other
great Powers. But he doubts the expediency of
action by them. It is more likely to help the war
party in the United States than to weaken them.

The position of the Queen Regent of Spain is most
lamentable and grievous. It is impossible not to
feel the deepest sympathy for her.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Balfour.

CiMiEZ, Uh April 1898. — I trust the explanation
in Parliament of our wise policy in China wiU be made
very plainly and explicitly, so as to put a close to the
very foolish and dangerous lies of many people in
England.^

1 Mr. Balfour reported the next day that he had that afternoon
made such a statement in debate in the House of Commons.

240 A DRIVE ON THE CORNICHE ROAD [chap, xiv

Extract from the Queen's J ournal.

CiMiEz, 4ith April 1898. — A beautiful day. Very
anxious about Spain and the United States. Went
to the Liserb garden ’with Louisa A. and sat in a
sheltered spot, whilst she read to me. Leopold
Hohenzollern came to luncheon, and was as pleasant
as ever. Wrote a letter to the Queen of Spain, "who
has appealed to me, poor thing. ^

Took a lovely drive with Beatrice and Marie E.,
up the Corniche road, beyond the Observatory,
turning down a steep narrow road, which passed close
to the upper gate of Lord Salisbury’s property. On
our way down to ViUefranche we met Leopold of
Belgium walking. He had arrived in ViUefranche
Harbour on his yacht this morning. It was a most
beautiful evening, and the view from the Corniche
road was marvellous, on the one side the snow-clad
Alps and on the other the sea. Lenchen had been to
see Affie and brought a good account of him. Leo-
pold of Belgium dined.

Sir Edmund Monson to Queen Victoria.

Pakis, 9th April 1898. — Sir Edmund Monson
presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and res-
pectfuUy submits that the portrait of your Majesty
destined for presentation to Monsieur Faure was
delivered at the Embassy in the forenoon of yesterday.
On account of its size, and the risk of injury if un-
packed at the Embassy, Sir Edmund took measures
for its being at once received at the Elysde ; and
shortly afterwards was requested by the President
to come to that place at half-past five o’clock to
make the formal presentation on behalf of your
Majesty.

At that hour, accompanied by Mr. Gosselin, your
Majesty’s Minister Plenipotentiary, and by Mr. Mon-
son, Private Secretary to the Ambassador, Sir Edmund
attended at the Elys^e, and on being introduced into

* See above, p. 236.

1898] M. ITAURE AND THE QUEEN’S PORTRAIT 24,1

Monsieur Faure’s presence stated that he had come to
make formal presentation in accordance with your
Majesty’s commands.

The President then led the way to one of the
garden saloons, in which the portrait had been placed ;
and on seeing it was evidently quite overcome by the
sight of so magnificent a present, for which he ex-
pressed himself entirely unprepared. He begged Sir
Edmund to convey his thanks to your Majesty,
adding that in a few days he would have the oppor-
tunity of expressing them more adequately in person.

In the course of further conversation Monsieur
Faure said that the Chambers having now adjourned,
he had changed the date of his own departure, and
should leave Paris to-day by the afternoon express
for Nice. If therefore it would be more convenient
for your Majesty and for the Prince of Wales that the
exchange of visits should take place on the Tuesday
of next week instead of on the Wednesday, as at
present fixed, he should be quite at your Majesty’s
disposal for that day.

The President, who was looking by no means as
well as usual, admitted that he had not been able to
shake off the effects of the attack of influenza from
which he has been suffering, and that he looked for-
ward with hope to entire change of air.

{Telegram.'] General Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

Atbara, 8th April 1898. — ^With humble duty to her
Majesty. The British and Egyptian troops under my
command attacked Mahmud’s entrenched position
on the Atbara this morning. After an artillery
bombardment the place was carried at the point of
the bayonet by the British Brigade and two Brigades
of the Egyptian Army in line.

The dervishes stood well, but were completely
swept out of their position by the gallant and steady
attack of the troops. Meantime the cavalry engaged
the enemy’s horsemen and the reserve brigade sup-
ported them and protected our flanks and rear.

242 BATTLE OF ATBARA [chap, xiv

The dervishes lost very heavily, and their leader
Mahmud is a prisoner in my hands.

I cannot speak too highly of the steadiness and
fine discipline of the troops. . . . Total casualties,
10 killed, 90 wounded. Mahmud’s force was from
12,000 to 14,000 strong. Most of the Emirs have been
killed. Osman Digna escaped early. The result of
this victory will doubtless greatly affect the future
of the Soudan. All wounded carefully attended in
hospital established here.

{Telegram^ Queen Victoria to General Kitchener.

(?) Qth April 1898 . — I congratulate you warmly
on the brilliant victory so splendidly won by my own
troops and those of the Khedive. I deplore the loss
of my brave officers and men, am most anxious to
hear how the wounded are progressing, in particular
Col. Murray ^ of the Gordon Highlanders whom I know
so well. Was Prince F. Teck with you ? V. R. I.

\Telegram.'\ The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Hombubg, 9th April ( 1898 ). — ^Most glad at good
news. I beg to express my sincerest congratulations
at the brilliant victory in the Soudan. The Sirdar
has done his work ably and well. William I. R.

[Telegramme.] Queen Victoria to the Khedive Abbas.

(?) 9 Avril 1898 . — Je prie votre Altesse d’agr^er
mes ffilicitations les plus sinceres a I’occasion de la
grande victoire qui vient d’etre si glorieusement
gagn6e par nos troupes reunies. V. R. I.

[Tdlegramme.] The Khedive Abbas to Queen Victoria.

Le Caibe, 10 Avril ( 1898 ), — Je suis profondement
touche des felicitations que votre Majeste Royale et
Imp^riale a daigne m’adresser k I’occasion de la
grande victoire remportee par nos troupes. Je suis
aussi heureux de dire a votre Majeste que la valeur

1 Afterwards Major-General Robert H. Murray, extra aide-de-camp
to Queen Victoria.

1898J QUEEN’S APPRECIATION OF M, FAURE 243

d^ploy^e par les officiers et les soldats du contingent
Anglais a largement contribud a cet eclatant succ^s.
Que le Tout-Puissant accorde sa haute protection [a]
nos braves soldats et les conduise de gloire en gloire !
Abbas Hibmi.

\Copy.’\ General Kitchener to Qiieen Victoria.

Atbara, IQth April 1898. — ^With my humble duty
I beg to express to your Majesty on behalf of the
officers and men our grateful thanks for your Majesty’s
gracious message which has been communicated to
the Army. Prince Francis of Teck commanded his
squadron of cavalry during the action and in the
preliminary reconnaissances, and has shown himself
to be an able and gallant soldier. Colonel Murray,
gallantly leading his men over the trenches, was
wounded in the left forearm. The bullet has been
'extracted, and the wound is not severe. All the
wounded are doing well, and will be in hospital at
Atbara Fort to-night. Boats have been prepared
with awnings to float them down the Nile to the base
hospital at Ginenetti. All the troops cheered enthu-
siastically on receiving your Majesty’s gracious mes-
sage. They are in the best of spirits, and are on their
way back to their quarters on the Nile.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 13th April 1898. — ^At half-past three
M. Faure, the President of the Republic, who has
been spending some days at the Riviera Palace, came
to see me. Bertie received him below, and brought
him up, and the three Princesses with the ladies were
at the top of the stairs. I stood at the door of the
drawing-room and asked him to sit down. He was
very courteous and amiable, with a charming manner,
so grand seigneur and not at all parvenu. He avoided
all polities, but said most kindly how I was aim^e par
la population, that he hoped I was comfortably lodged,
etc. Bertie and the others came in, and after a little
III— ir

244 SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR [chap, xiv

while the President’s two gentlemen were presented,
then he left.

IQth April. — Already seventeen years ago that
good Lord Beaconsfield died.

21siE April. — War seems hopelessly declared, and
the respective Spanish and United States Ministers
have left their posts ! It is monstrous of America.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

22nd April 1898. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully submits that he believes the Powers
are sorrowfully agreed that at this stage nothing
further can he done to arrest the war. Even the
very temperate and guarded note which was addressed
by the Powers to the U.S. Government was very much
resented by a large portion of the community as an
undue interference, and had no other effect than to
harden the war feeling. But of course your Majesty’s
Government will most gladly do anything which will
bring hostilities to a conclusion. . . .

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

CiMiEZ, 25th April 1898. — Drove down to the
Promenade des Anglais a little before eleven, with
Beatrice, Marie E., and Drino to see a parade of the
troops of the garrison. They were anyhow to have
been inspected by the Governor, General Gebhardt,
this morning, but he asked that the salute should be
given to me. He met us on horseback before we got
to the Promenade, and with his staff preceded us.
Our carriage was drawn up near the pier, facing the
Jardin Public. The troops, numbering about 2,000,
marched past. General Gaze, commanding the brigade,
riding by at their head. It was a very pretty sight
and the marching very fast, as is always the custom
of the French. I complimented General Gebhardt on
the appearance of the troops, in return for his expres-
sion of thanks for the grand honneur I had done them
by being present. The Pr^fet also came up to the
carriage, and in a very flowing speech expressed the

1898] MR. GLADSTONE’S ILLNESS 246

same. The day was splendid, but the glare of the
white road very trying to the eyes.

The Queen Regent and the young Queen of the
Netherlands arrived to lunch, just before two.
Wilhelmina looked very sweet, and has a nice figure
and charming expression. She has a very pleasing
manner, and is as simple as three years ago. She is
grown, but is not tall. Emma was as amiable as
ever. Her youngest sister Elisabeth came with them.
They remained talking with me a little while in the
drawing-room after luncheon, and I gave Wilhelmina
my Victoria and Albert Order, which was in fact
intended for [her] when she attains her majority
next August.

Buckingham Palace, lOth May . — A dull dark
morning, very warm. Lenchen breakfasted with us
three, and the dear little York children came, looking
very well. David is a delightful child, so intelligent,
nice, and friendly. The baby is a sweet, pretty little
thing. Out with Beatrice in the garden, which is
looldng very green and pretty, and there are quantities
of iris out. After an early luncheon dressed for the
Drawing-room, which was a very full one. I remained
an hour.

Mrs. Gladstone to Queen Victoria.

Hawauden Castus, 14ift May (1898).

Dear Madam, — I have been very much touched
by your Majesty’s gracious enquiries about my dear
husband.

I am thankful to say Sir Thomas Smith’s pre-
scriptions have been valuable in allaying the trying
pain and giving sleep, but it is most disappointing to
me that alas he does not seem to gain strength. I
am thankful Lord Rosebery saw him again to-day,
for it was a pleasure to both.

Your dear Majesty only knows too well what
anxiety is, and your ever tender kindness has en-
couraged me to write. I remain, your Majesty’s
devoted humble servant, Catherine Gladstone.

246

DEATH OP MR. GLADSTONE [chap, xiv

Lord George Hamilton to Queen Victoria.

India Office, IMh May 1898. — Lord George
Hamilton with his humble duty to your Majesty has
the honour to acknowledge the Queen’s letter relative
to the number of honours submitted for Europeans
and Natives respectively.

Lord George sent to Lord Elgin some time back
the expression of the Queen’s wishes on this subject,
and the Viceroy undertook to do his utmost to find
suitable Natives for distinction, but the large pro-
portion of the higher administrative offices held by
Europeans makes it almost impossible to equalise in
every submission the names of Europeans and Natives.

Including the list of honours just approved by her
Majesty, the following appointments in the last two
years have been made in the highest grades of the
two orders, viz, 32 Europeans and 21 Natives. This
is independent of increases of salutes sanctioned by
the Queen ; there is also every year a large number
of Native titles given by the Viceroy, which do not
come home for submission to your Majesty.

Lord Lansdowne proposes to include in his sub-
mission to your Majesty the names of three Indian
Princes for the honour of the Bath.

Lord George will do his best to give effect to the
Queen’s wishes in this respect, as he thoroughly
appreciates the policy and justice of the rule your
Majesty desires to establish.

Extract from the Queers Journal.

Windsor Castle, IQih May 1898. — Heard at
breakfast time that poor Mr. Gladstone, who has
been hopelessly ill for some time and had suffered
severely, had passed away quite peacefully this
morning at five. He was very clever and full of ideas
for the bettering and advancement of the country,
always most loyal to me personally, and ready to do
anything for the Royal Family ; but alas ! I am sure
involuntarily, he did at times a good deal of harm.

247

1898] THE QUEEN AND MRS. GLADSTONE

He had a wonderful power of speaking and carrying
the masses with him.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

10 Downing Street, IQthMay 1898. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that as soon as the House met
at three o’clock he moved its adjournment for the
day out of respect to the memory of Mr, Gladstone.
At the same time he gave notice that to-morrow he
would move an address to your Majesty for a public
funeral and monument, unless the former were
inconsistent with Mr. Gladstone’s expressed wishes.

Queen Victoria to Mrs. Gladstone.

\ Copy .^ Windsor Castle, IQth May 1808.

Dear Mrs. Gladstone, — ^You must let me write
again to say how very deeply I feel for you, and pray
that God may support you in your present over-
whelming grief, and that the thought that all your
dear husband’s sufferings are ended may bring you a
ray of comfort.

I shall always gratefully remember how anxious
he always was to help and serve me and mine in all that
concerned my personal comfort and welfare, as well
as that of my family. Pray do not think of answering
my letters, but let your daughter do so.

Pray express ray true sympathy to all your
children who were so attached to their father. No
wife ever was so devoted as you were, and the loss of
the one object of your life is irreparable. Believe me,
ever yours affectionately, V. B,. I.

Mrs. Gladstone to Queen Victoria.

Hawakden Castle, iOth May (1898).

Dear Madam, — If I do not obey your Majesty’s
commands not to write myself, I feel I must use
Mary’s pen to express in my very own words my
loving thanks and gratitude for the tender kindness
of the two letters written to me by your Majesty.
To have it in your own handwriting that he has been

248 THE PRINCE OF MONTENEGRO [chap, siv

a personal comfort to your Majesty is very precious
to me, and what of all things he would have wished ;
his devotion to your Majesty and the Prince Consort
was unbounded, and I can never forget the deep
emotion and reverence Idndled in him by your
Majesty after being permitted to see you in 1862.

This terrible long-suffering illness has only brought
out in him that wonderful faith and trust in the Divine
love and mercy which was the Icejmote of his whole
life. “ Thou hast given him his heart’s desire, and
hast not denied him the request of his lips.” How
much better this ought to make me, but how I am to
live without him I can only leave to God. Your
Majesty’s devoted humble servant, Catherine
Gladstone.

The German Princes to Queen Victoria.

Berlin, 22nd May 1898. — ^We kiss your hands,
dearest Grandmama, for the lovely presents for our
confirmation. William, Fritz.

Sir Francis Knollys to Sir Arthur Bigge,

MAULBOROUGn HousE, 24ith May 1898.

My dear Bigge, — The Prince of Wales desires me
to ask if you think the Queen proposes to insert
something in the Court Circular respecting Mr. Glad-
stone. H.R.H. says the feeling of sentiment about
him is so very strong among all classes in the country,
that he thinks her Majesty might perhaps wish a few
words to appear on the day of the funeral. Yours
sincerely, Francis Knollys.

The Prince of Montenegro ^ to Queen Victoria.
\Tdegramme.'\

Cettinje, 25 Mai 1898. — Je viens de rentrer a
Cetigne apres un heureux voyage sur terre et sur les
mers, dont vous etes presque I’exclusive souveraine.
Ai trouv4 les miens en bonne sante, emus du recit
de mes impressions de Londres, et de I’accueil graeieux

* The Prince had teen on a visit to England, and had spent a couple
of days as the Queen’s nuest at Balmoral.

1898] COURT CIRCULAR AND MR, GLADSTONE 249

dont j’ai ete Pobjet de la part de votre Majesty ; et,
profondement reconnaissants, ils la benisseut avec
moi. Ai passe la memorable et heureuse journee de
bier en pleine mer, et, si mes felicitations, qu’accom-
pagnent mes remerciments, vous parviennent nn pen
tard, elles n’en sont pas moins absolument devonees
et sinc^res. Nicolas.

Queen Victoria to the Prince of Montenegro.
[Telegramme.]

Balmoral, 26 Mai 1898 . — Je remercie votre
Altesse de tout coeur de votre si bonne aimable
depgche et de tous les voeux que vous exprimez pour
ma fete. Je suis charmee de vous savoir heureuse-
ment de retour et que vous avez rapporte un bon
souvenir de votre trop court sejour en Angleterre,
qui de notre cote nous a cause un vif plaisir. Soyez
mon interpr^te aupres de la Princesse de mes senti-
ments affectueux. V. R. I.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Telegram.]

(?) i^th May 1898 . — ^The Queen wishes Lord Salis-
bury to know that it was entirely an oversight that
no reference to Mr. Gladstone’s death was made in
Court Circular the day after that event. Her Majesty
was reminded of the omission by the Prince of Wales
and in consequence the following announcement ^ was
agreed upon yesterday to appear on morning of
funeral. , . .

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Mrs. Gladstone.

Balmoral, 28th May 1898 . — My thoughts are much
with you to-day when your dear husband is laid to
rest. To-day’s ceremony wiU be most trying and
painful for you, but it wiU be, at the same time,
gratifying to you to see the respect and regret evinced
by the nation for the memory of one whose character
and inteUectual abihties marked him as one of the

' The telegram to Mrs. Gladstone -which follows.

250 FUNJKRAL OF MR, GLADSTONE [chap, xiv

most distinguished statesmen of my reign. I shall
ever gratefully remember his devotion and zeal in
all that concerned my personal welfare and that of my
family. Victoria R. I,

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoral, 2Sth May 1898. — Heard from Bertie
and Lord Pembroke that Mr. Gladstone’s funeral
to-day, at Westminster Abbey, had gone off extremely
well, and had been very impressive and touching. I
had a very long account of the funeral by telegram
from the Duke of Norfolk.

'[Telegram.'l The Prince of Wales to Queen Victoria.

28th May 1898. — Funeral just over, a most im-
pressive and touching sight, very simple but dig-
nified. Bertie.

[Telegram.] Mrs. Drew to Queen Victoria.

Ha WARDEN Castle, 29th May 1898. — ^Mary
Drew’s humble duty to your Majesty. The wonderful
service brought strength and comfort to my mother,
and we returned here yesterday. She slept well and
thanks your Majesty.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Hateield House, 29th May 1898. — Lord Salis-
bury with his humble duty to your Majesty respect-
fully acknowledges your letter with respect to Mrs.
Gladstone, and returns the enclosed letter which he
has read with deep and melancholy interest.

The ceremony yesterday was very impressive on
account of the circumstances, and mostly, the pathetic,
touching figure of Mrs. Gladstone. But the ceremony
was hardly beautiful. The conditions of simplicity
imposed made that impossible. But the music was
very fine. Outside there were great crowds, but the
effect was made almost ridiculous by the rows of
cameras which fined the pavement and the roofs.

1898] THE QUEEN ON VICEROY’S DUTY 251

[Co'py.'l Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Balmoral Castle, May 1898. — The Queen
read with much interest Lord Salisbury’s letter
respecting the future Viceroy and his account of his
conversation with Sir Wm. Lockhart ^ with which she
feels sure he will have been pleased. His opinion of
Mr. G. Curzon is certainly of great weight ; and the
latter’s friendly feeling towards the Ameer and his
knowledge of Afghanistan are very important. But
that is not all. The future Viceroy must really shake
himself more and more free from his red-tapist,
narrow-minded Council and entourage. He must be
more independent, must hear for himself what the
feelings of the Natives really are, and do what he thinks
right, and not be guided by the snobbish and vulgar
overbearing and ofiensive behaviour of many of our
Civil and Political Agents, if we are to go on peace-
fully and happily in India, and to be liked and beloved
by high and low, as well as respected as we ought to
be, and not trying to trample on the people and con-
tinually reminding them and make them feel that they
are a conquered people. They must of course feel
that we are masters, but it should be done kindly and
not offensively, which alas ! is so often the case.
Would Mr. Curzon feel and do this ?

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, Brd June 1898. — ^Dear Georgie’s birth-
day. May God bless and protect him for many years
to come !

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

9th June 1898. — . . . Lord Salisbury will not fail
to communicate to Mr. Curzon the expression of your
Majesty’s views with respect to the treatment of the
natives. They will be very valuable to him as a guide ;
and it will be of the greatest possible advantage both to
India and the Empire if he observes them successfully.

Commander- in-Chief in India, who told Lord Salisbury that “he
should look forward with great satisfaction to serving under Lord
Curzon.”

252

DR. JAMESON’S OFFICERS [chap, xiv

Before making a final arrangement Lord Salisbury
proposes, on Lord George Hamilton’s suggestion, to
ask Mr. Curzon to consult his medical man as to his
physical fitness for the post.

Lord Salisbury returns Lord George Hamilton’s
letter with his respectful thanks. He quite concurs in
the policy of giving to natives a full share of honours.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.

War Office, Qth June 1898, — Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he has
the honour to bring before your Majesty again the
case of the officers who were required to resign their
commissions owing to their connection with the
Jameson raid.

Lord Lansdowne thinks that the time has come
when the decision arrived at in 1896 may be reviewed,
and he submits the following proposals trusting that
they will meet with your Majesty’s approval.

In the case of Sir John Willoughby and Colonel
Rhodes he sees no reason for a departure from the
original decision. These officers took the leading parts,
and neither of them can be regarded as having been
the mere dupe of others.

The remaining four officers stand in a somewhat
different position. They plead that they were acting
under orders from their immediate superiors, and that
they believed themselves throughout to be only doing
their duty as soldiers. They have been severely punished
already by imprisonment and exclusion from the Army.

Lord Lansdowne advises that Major the Hon. H.
White, Captain the Hon. R. Wliite, and Captain Grey
be now gazetted as unattached officers on half pay
of the rank which they held when they left the Army.
This arrangement will render them eligible for Colonial
employment as officers, and will also enable the mili-
tary authorities to bring them back, should that course
hereafter be found convenient, either into their own,
or into any other regiment, or to give them other
mihtary employment such as special service.

1898] DISCIPLINE OP THE ARMY 253

Major Coventry, who is a militia officer, cannot be
dealt with in this way. He is probably of all the
officers concerned the most deserving of lenient
treatment. Lord Lansdowne thinks he should be
gazetted back to his old regiment in the Militia. A
Colonial appointment is, Lord Lansdowne has reason
to know, open to him, and he can be “ seconded ” to
enable him to take it up. He will be placed at the
bottom of his rank.

Lord Lansdowne has referred to his correspondence
with your Majesty in 1896 before writing this letter,
and he earnestly trusts that the recommendations
which he now makes will seem to your Majesty well
suited to the requirements of this difficult case.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

Balmoral Castle, lOth June 1898.

My deae Loed Lansdowne, — ^Directly the Queen
received your telegram^ explaining that the Com-
mander-in-Chief concurred in the recommendation
regarding the Jameson Raid officers contained in your
letter of yesterday to her Majesty, I telegraphed that
her Majesty agreed to your proposed announcement
in Parliament.

The Queen fully appreciates the exceptional
difficulties which beset the case, and her Majesty
trusts that in extending so much consideration and
mercy to those officers who are now to be reinstated,
the discipline of the Army will not suffer in the smallest
degree. Yours very truly, Aethue Bigge.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 10th June 1898. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that to-night was entirely
devoted to a debate on Foreign Affairs. Sir C. Dilke,
who was the first speaker, made his principal attack on

1 The Queen had telegraphed through Sir Arthur Bigge to ask
whether the Commander-in-Cliief “ whom H.M. regards as responsible
for the discipline of the Army ” concurred in Lord Lansdowne’s leoom-
TnpnSatinn.

254 COMMONS AND FOREIGN POLICY [chap, xiv

Lord Salisbury ; and by an elaborate and lengthy
survey of the events of the last few years he endeavoured
to show that Lord Salisbury’s foreign policy had been
feeble and yielding ; that he has shown little care for
the commercial interests of the country or capacity
for maintaining its honour. Mr. Curzon in an able
and brilliant speech defended the Foreign Office, and
said admirably everything that had to be said on this
branch of the controversy.

The real attack, however, was not upon Lord
Salisbury but upon Mr. Chamberlain. His famous
speech at Birmingham ^ was the theme of some
paragraphs of Sir C. Dilke’s speech, of the whole of
Mr. Asquith’s, and of Sir W. Harcourt’s, who rose
at 10.20 to conclude the debate for his side. The
aim of these various speakers was partly to suggest
that there was a difference of opinion on foreign
policy between different sections of the Cabinet ;
partly to attack the substance of Mr. Chamberlain’s
utterances on the subject of Foreign Alliances, and to
draw unfavourable comparison between him and the
Prime Minister.

Mr. Chamberlain rephed in a speech of character-
istic vigour. He repudiated the suggestion of differ-
ences in the Cabinet with sarcastic allusion to the
notorious differences which existed in the Cabinet
which preceded it. The remainder of his argument
consisted substantially of the legitimate contention

1 In this speech, on 13th May, Mr. Chamberlain said that a policy
of isolation had been satisfactory in old days, but now that the Great
Powers had made alliances, we, so long as we kept outside these alliances,
were liable at any moment to be confronted by a combination of over-
whelming force. Our first duty was to draw aU parts of the Empire
together, and our next to establish and maintain bonds of permanent
amity with the United States. Because of our isolation we could not
interfere more actively in Crete, Armenia, or China. As to the promises
given and broken by Russia about Port Arthur, “ who sups with the
devil must have a long spoon.” The whole fate of the Chinese Empire
and our enormous interests there was in question ; and, if we remained
in isolation, might and probably would be decided against our wishes.
If we were determined to enforce the policy of the “ open door,” we
must not reject the idea of an alliance with those Powers whose interests
most nearly approximated to our own.

1898] MR. GLADSTONE’S LAST DAYS 256

that he had not intended to enunciate or recommend
a new policy, but merely to state facts, showing that
whatever the advantage of isolation might be, such a
condition of affairs carried with it characteristic
weaknesses. He ended with an eloquent appeal on
the Anglo-American alliance ; which infuriated Mr.
Dillon 1 Our majority was about two to one.

Mrs. Drew to Queen Victoria.

Hawabden Castle, 12th June 1898.

Madam, — ^My mother is greatly touched by your
Majesty’s goodness in writing to me so graciously.
We have often talked of that day at Cannes when we
had the honour and privilege of being received by
your Majesty, and my father has often referred to it
with much pleasure. His one aim and object latterly
was to hve and die at peace with all men ; leaving all
matters of contention behind, he died blessing all,
the last conscious words that he said to me were,
“ Pray for all our fellow Christians, for all our fellow
creatures, and especially for those who are down-
trodden and oppressed and unhappy.”

My mother continues well in health and very
patient and brave.

I venture to enclose my husband’s sermon, and
remain, your Majesty’s devoted humble servant,
Mary Drew.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, lUh June 1898. — It is ten years to-day
that our beloved and excellent Fritz ^ was taken, and
how he is regretted more and more ! I look upon his
death as quite a calamity for the whole of Europe and
the preservation of peace.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

20 Arlington Street, Vtth June 1898. — ^Lord
Salisbury with his humble duty respectfully tenders
to your Majesty his warmest thanks for the most kind
and gracious words in which your Majesty’s note to
1 The German Emperor Frederick III.

256 GOUNOD’S “ROMEO AND JULIET” [chap, xiv

him of the 15th is couched. It is a matter of sincere
congratulation that the agreement ^ was arrived at
before the resignation of Monsieur Meline’s Ministry.
France appears to be entering on a period of trouble.
Sir E. Monson has done very well. But he has every-
thing, and it is difficult to know how your Majesty’s
recognition of his merit could be expressed by any
honour.

Extracts from the Queen’’ s Journal.

Windsor, Castle, 27th June 1898.' — Punctually
at nine we went over to the Waterloo Gallery, where
a performance of Gounod’s Borneo and Juliet was
given. The music is heavenly, especially that of the
two last acts, but I can scarcely [say] which I admire
most, this or Faust. It is impossible to speak too
highly of Madame Eames’ performance as Juliet.
Her voice is beautifully clear, and she sings with much
feeling. We had a great disappointment in Jean de
Reszke being unable to sing, having been taken ill at
the last moment, and a M. Saleza, a new tenor, who
has a good voice, but sings rather too loud, took his
part as Romeo. As for Edouard de Reszke, who was
the Friar, and Plan 9 on, the father, they were quite
magnificent with their splendid voices. The marriage
scene in the cell, where the friar has a good deal to
sing, was most beautiful, and the last scene was
terribly touching. The orchestra was excellent.

The performance lasted till close on one, and after
it was over I went to the Green drawing-room, where
aU the company passed by, as on former occasions.
The Syndicate who manage the Covent Garden Opera,
consisting of Lord de Grey,^ Mr. Higgins, and Mr.
Faber,® came by first and were presented, followed
by Mr. Gran, the Manager, then after the company
had passed by, the performers came in, viz. Madame
Eames, whom I praised very much; Miss Bauermeister,
who has been attached to the Opera for many years,

1 About frontiers in West Africa, especially Nigeria.

® Afterwards 2nd Marquis of Ripon.

^ Afterward'; T,ord Wittenb m.

257

1898] JEAN AND EDOUARD DE RESZKE

taking the small parts ; Mr. Edouard de Reszke, still
in his friar’s dress, particularly pleasing, and was
dreadfully distressed at his brother’s iUness ; M.
Plangon, who came in in usual evening dress, and M.
Saleza, also in costume. I gave Madame Eames my
present, and Arthur and Lenchen gave those for the
others.

Aldeeshot,^ Qth July 1898. — The accounts of the
Spanish-American War are dreadful. The Spanish
Fleet has been destroyed and the Admiral taken
prisoner.

ITelegraml] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

S.M. Yacht “ Hohenzollekn,” Molde, 12th
July 1898. — I just had the pleasure of inspecting the
Raleigh, Commodore Poe, flagship of the Training
Squadron at anchor off Molde. The ship was in
first-rate order, and the men looked well and cheery.
The Captain and Officers are going to dine with me
to-night. I venture to express my gratification at
the event of being able to spend some hours with so
many charming brother officers.

Abby® sends his most respectful love. William
I. R.

Extract from the Queen's J ournal.

WiNDSOE Castle, llith July 1898. — ^After dinner
we had a great musical treat, which was a sort of
dedommagement for the disappointment of Jean de
Reszke not singing in Romeo and Juliet. Jean and
Edouard de Reszke, and a new young singer, Miss
Adams, came to sing. It was a beautiful selection
of music. The two brothers were in splendid voice
and most amiable and pleasant to speak to. Jean
was in despair at not having been able to sing the other
day, and is most anxious to do so next year. The
trio (the marriage scene from Romeo) was splendid,

^ The Dute of Connaught was now in command at Aldershot, and
the Queen had gone there for a couple of days to present colours and
inspect the troops.

“ See above, p. 171.

258 GERMANY AND BRITAIN [chap, xiv

and they proposed, “ si je n’etais pas fatigu6e,” to
sing the fine concluding scene between the Friar and
Juliet. I also asked the two brothers to sing the duet
from Carmen, which they had done on two previous
occasions. The depth and volume of Edouard’s voice
are marvellous, and Jean’s, which has a certain
similarity of timbre, is most touching. Miss Adams
has a beautiful, pure, fresh voice, and sings well.
Mr. Webber accompanied beautifully, and always
accompanies Jean de Reszke.

The Empress Frederick to Queen Victoria.
[Copy.^ SCHLOSS FaiEDRiCHSHOF, CnONBERG, 15th July 1898.

. . . What you tell me is very strange ! I do
know for a fact that William is most anxious for a
rapprochement with England, and hopes with all his
heart that England wiU come forward in some sort
of way and meet him half-way. Mr. Chamberlain’s
utterances ^ at different times have made the most
favourable impression on William, but he fears that
Lord Salisbury does not or cannot endorse them for
some reasons !

Prince tiohenlohe * is not anti-Russian that I know
of, but I consider him decidedly pro-Russian, and
perhaps is obliged to be so, as all his property is in
Russia and his children’s fiiture depends on its not
being completely lost to him. Still, I think he does not
allow himself to be completely swayed by this con-
sideration. Billow® is extremely anxious for a good
understanding with England, but one often hears,
alas ! such a thing as an alliance is too good to be
true! English Governments are dependent on the
House of Commons, Ministries change so, a contin-
uous foreign policy with apian to be followed up cannot
exist in England. Still, I am convinced that any
definite advance on the part of Lord Salisbury would
be very well received by William. I think Sir Frank
Lascelles knows that too !

1 See above, note on p. 254.

2 Cliancellor of the German Empire.

3 German Foreign Secretary.

]898] ACCIDENT TO PEINCE OF WALES 259

Biilow seemed to think a good understanding
could only be the work of time, and of slow growth ;
whilst I imagine William thinks the moment propitious,
and would be anxious for the idea to take shape and
form ! If I may say, I also think it would be wise to
treat and consider the matter without too much
delay ! I daresay William has spoken to Eckardstein.

I tried myself to improve the opportunity, and
told William what I thought ; which you know I very
rarely do ! I also once wrote to Hatzfeldt quite
confidentially (six weeks or more ago), but he never
answered or took any notice. . . . Victoria.

I am sure William would make every endeavour to
enjiler a rapprochement with England, but fears it
would not be reciprocated by Lord Salisbury,

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, ISth July 1898. — Heard that
poor Bertie had hurt his leg by slipping downstairs at
Waddesdon, Baron Ferdinand’s^ place, and after
dinner Sir J. Reid had a telegram from Sir F.
Laking, begging him to come up to town to-morrow
morning.

19f/i July. — Saw by a bulletin in the papers,
signed by Sir F. Laking and Sir Wm. McCormac, that
poor Bertie had fractured his kneecap, and later on I
heard from Sir James a confirmation of this, and that
some weeks of complete immobility would be neces-
sary. It was feared the limb might be permanently
somewhat impaired, which is most sad.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

21s]5 June [F July] 1898. — ^Lord Salisbury with his
humble duty to your Majesty respectfully submits
that he has received with great gratitude and has
perused with much interest the letter of H.I.M. the
Empress Frederick, which he returns. It appears
that she and the German Emperor are of opinion that
in the communications which are going on about

' Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild.

ITT — 1 8

260 IMPORTANT CABINET DECISIONS [chap, xir

Colonial territory between England and Germany,
Mr. Chamberlain is anxions to meet the wishes of
Germany while Lord Salisbury is opposing them.
Lord Salisbury never wishes to discuss the actions of
a colleague, but he feels bound to inform your Majesty
that this view of the comparative action of Lord
Salisbury and Mr. Chamberlain is not correct, it is the
very reverse of the truth.

Lord Salisbury has communicated to Lord George
Hamilton your Majesty’s wishes with respect to the
signature of the letter to Holkar. Lord George will
communicate with your Majesty.

The Prince of Wales’ accident is most lamentable.
The accounts are rather better this evening, but he
will be laid up for some weeks.

Lady Salisbury is going on as well as possible.
She will be allowed to go on a sofa on Tuesday. The
ailment has entirely ceased. . . .

25th July . — . . . A Cabinet was held to-day.
Besides the ordinary arrangements for the conduct of
business, two subjects of importance were discussed
at some length. The first was the despatch which
Lord George Hamilton was writing to the Government
of India with respect to the future government of the
frontier. The question was whether it should con-
tinue to be confided to the Government of the Punjab,
or whether it should be placed [under the Govern-
ment] of India. The majority of the Cabinet leant
strongly to the latter view, which it was admitted
would avoid the red tape and paper administration of
the Government of the Punjab. Lord Elgin was for
leaving things under the Punjab. It was resolved not
to accept his advice, but to leave the final decision
of details till the new Viceroy and his Government had
had the opportunity of reporting on the matter.

The other question was our dealing with the Nile
Valley if, and when, we had taken Khartoum. For
this question Lord Cromer attended the Cabinet and
gave us the benefit of his views. He thought that the
Egyptian and British flags should float side by side ;

1898] VISIT TO PRINCE OF WALES 261

that the gunboats with General Kitchener and a small
force should go up the Nile as far as Fashoda (600
miles) ; and as much farther as was practicable ;
and that any other flag in that valley should be re-
moved. He promised to express the result of the
deliberations of the Cabinet in a draft Foreign Office
despatch, which wiU be duly submitted to your
Majesty.

[Same day,] — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully submits that his
doctors (Sir William Broadbent and Dr. Hermann
Weber) have ordered him to Contrexeville for gouty
eczema. He proposes with your Majesty’s permission
to start about the ninth of August. He will be at
the bath for three weeks ; and three weeks more at
Schlucht in the Vosges for a nachkur. During his
stay at the bath Mr. Balfour has consented to take
charge of the Foreign Office.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 27th July 1898. — Saw Lord Cromer after
luncheon. He was full of interesting information
about Egypt, and said the expedition would begin
early in September. He hoped the whole would be
over by the end of September.

He praised Sir Herbert Kitchener very much,
saying how very able he was ; and how difficult it
was to deal with the Khedive.

3l5i{ July. — ^At quarter to three, drove down to
Trinity Pier with Beatrice and Thora, and went on
board the Alberta, which steamed up to the Osborne,
which had arrived last night with Bertie on board.
It took a little time arranging the gangway from the
bridge of the Alberta to the deck of the Osborne. I
was rolled across up to where Bertie was lying on his
couch, under a sort of tent which took in the whole
stern. He was lying there, looldng very well in face,
and was cheery and pleased to see us. I sat about
half an hour with him. Bertie presented the surgeons.
Sir Wm. McCormac and Mr. Fripp, who had attended

282 DEATH OF PRINCE BISMARCK [chap, xiv

Eddy when he was ill. Sir William said the injury
to Bertie’s knee was a very bad one, but, though
progressing favourably, he would have to be very
quiet for a long time.

Returned as we came steaming right round the
Crescent, which was all dressed. It was delightful
and the sea was a beautiful colour, as one sees some-
times in the Mediterranean.

Heard the startling news that Bismarck had died
last night quite peacefully.

2nd Aug . — Heard to our distress from May, who
had been to the Osborne, that the poor Queen of
Denmark ^ was very ill, and that Alix had been sum-
moned. At a little after four she came to see me,
much upset. The doctors had telegraphed that the
Queen was a shade better, but that her heart is weak,
and that she seemed to be failing altogether, also
she is unable to take food. So Alix has decided to
go to-night, which distresses her very much on account
of Bertie.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Uh Aug. 1898. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully thanks your Majesty for the very
interesting letters from the Empress Frederick which
he returns.

He earnestly hopes that H.I.M. will not communi-
cate any letter of his to the German Emperor. He
would certainly repeat it to someone else ; and it
would have the appearance as if Lord Salisbury was
intriguing with the German Emperor against Mr.
Chamberlain. Lord Salisbury had no wish except to
defend himself against a possible misapprehension
on the part of your Majesty.

The German Emperor takes offence very easily.
Lord Salisbury cannot in the least understand what
it is he refers to when he speaks of his overtures
having been received with “ something between a
joke and a snub.” Lord Salisbury has carefully

1 Tlirv of Ppinop* ‘ of

268

1898] THE QUEEN AND THE PHONOGKAPH

conveyed to Count Hatzfeldt on each occasion the
decision of the Cabinet.

The truth is that on questions of territorial cession
the German Emperor and public opinion here take
very opposite views. It would be impossible to do
what the German Emperor desires without incurring
the reproach of deserting British interests and making
undue concessions. Lord Salisbury is far from
saying that British public opinion is always right in
this attitude of mind ; but, when the public is excited
on the subject as they are now, it is too strong to be
resisted. . . .

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 8th Aug. 1898. — ^After luncheon Lord
Denbigh brought a phonograph, into which I spoke,
as it was wished I should send a message to the
Emperor Menelek. It will be sealed up ; and des-
troyed after he has received the message.

Queen Victoria to the Emperor Menelek,
[Phonograph Message.]

Osborne, 8th Aug. 1898. — I, Victoria Queen of
England, hope your Majesty is in good health. I
thank you for the kind reception which you have
given to my Envoys, Mr. Rodd and Mr. Harrington.
I wish your Majesty and the Empress Taitou all
prosperity and success, and I hope that the friendship
between our two Empires will constantly increase.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Hatfield House, 10th Aug. 1898. — Lord Salis-
bury with his humble duty respectfully thanks your
Majesty for the Empress Frederick’s letter which
he returns. Count Hatzfeldt’s demeanour did not
at all correspond with the Emperor’s strange telegram.
The negotiations were friendly and made some pro-
gress. The object of them in the first place is to settle
what Portuguese colonies in Africa either Power may
charge the interest of a loan upon, if, as is too prob-

264 SPAIN AND GIBKALTAR [chap, siv

able, a large loan has to be found for Portugal. But
Germany is anxious further that we should settle to
whom these colonies are to go, if Portugal should give
them up. It may be useful to settle this beforehand ;
but we are very anxious to make it clear that we desire
to keep the Portuguese monarchy upright ; and to
protect her in the possession of her colonies, so long
as there is no revolution at Lisbon, and the monarchy
remains standing. Germany professes the same desire,
but we are not quite sure of her sincerity. . . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir H. Drummond Wolff. ^
[Telegram.] [Secret.]

Foeeign Office, 11th Aug. 1898, 8 p.m . — ^Your
telegrams Nos. 279 and 280.

The question of Gibraltar is most serious. The
erection of batteries or of emplacements for heavy
guns commanding the fortress or the anchorage might
render the place useless to us in time of war. We
should shrink from no consequences in order to avoid
such a result; and ‘though we leave it to you to
communicate our views in the manner least likely
to wound Spain’s susceptibilities, please understand
that no room for misconception should be left as to
the settled policy of this country.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

OsBOENE, ISth Aug. 1898. — ^After luncheon saw
Sir Robert Warburton. I had nearly an hour’s most
interesting conversation with him. He was instru-
mental in bringing about the peace on the Afghan
frontier, having been thirty-one years on the frontier,
near the Khyber Pass, and employed as political
agent there. Out of lamentable red-tapery, on
account of his age, he was superseded, but had to be
sent for back again. He told me (as I had known
before) that his mother had been an Afghan, related
to a great Khyber Chief who is now interned in India.

1 >Tnlbaf ador at MadTid.

1898 ] SIR ROBERT WARBURTON 265

Sir R. Warburton was born in the country, and
remained there till he was thirteen. His poor mother
had had to fly for her life. His father had been a
hostage at the time of Akbar Khan, when, in ’40, we
had such terrible disasters. The war, he said, might
have perhaps been averted. The Afghans were
splendid fighting men, and were now as friendly as
if nothing had happened. They were treacherous,
especially in their feuds amongst each other. He
spoke of the difficulties in India, the one great thing
being to see and get in touch with the people, which
is by far too little done.

IQih Aug . — Drove down to Trinity Pier with
Beatrice and May, and went on board the Osborne to
see Bertie. Had tea and sat some little time with him.
He was in very good spirits, and said he had sat in an
armchair. He would probably go on a little cruise in
a few days.

Mr. Curzon to Queen Victoria.

The Priory, Reigate, 22nd Aug. 1898. — Mr.
Curzon with his humble duty to her Majesty the
Queen Empress has the honour to acknowledge the
gracious letter of the Queen.

Mr. Curzon is well acquainted with Sir Robert
Warburton, and rode up the Khyber Pass in his com-
pany in 1894. He has also heard much of Sir R.
Warburton’s influence with the tribes, and rejoices to
think that her Majesty has formed so high an opinion
of his character and services. The employment of such
men as Sir R. Warburton upon the frontier is an object
which has always seemed of the utmost importance
to Mr. Curzon. And he proposes, as soon as he can
be spared from Calcutta or Simla, to go to the frontier
himself and make a careful examination of the local
conditions with the view of recommending to her
Majesty’s Government the best system (synonymous,
in Mr. Curzon’s opinion, with the employment of
the best men) for avoiding in the future such calam-
ities as the war of last year.

266 LORD CURZON ON FRONTIER POLICY [chap, xiv

There is, however, as her Majesty the Queen
Empress is aware, some difference of opinion on the
matter : the scheme of a Frontier Commissionership
being regarded with suspicion in some quarters, as
involving, which it need not do, a militant policy ;
and it is apparently for this reason that it has been
viewed unfavourably by the India Office.

It might be that a few words to the Secretary of
State would produce a change of attitude. In any
case, it is with a deep sense of obligation that Mr.
Curzon has received the expression of her Majesty’s
views on the matter ; and he wiU not fail to bear
them in mind as soon as he has assumed the duties
of the Office with which the Queen Empress has
graciously been pleased to invest him.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, Aug. 1898. — Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that neither the question at
issue with Russia about the Northern (or Neuchwang)
Railway nor that with the Chinese Government in con-
nection with their breach of faith about the Hankow
concession, have yet come to a head. On the other
hand, the negotiations with Germany are making
satisfactory progress. Mr. Balfour has had several
long interviews with the German Ambassador ; and
he hopes that an arrangement may be come to, not
disadvantageous to Portugal, which will cement the
friendship between the country and the German
Empire, and will indeed amount to a positive alliance
so far as S. Africa is concerned.

Mr. Balfour cannot conclude this letter without
expressing his uneasiness about the present position
of Gibraltar. The Spanish Government have been
creating works which threaten the anchorage and
the fortress itself. The excuse was the fear of an
American invasion. That excuse the peace has re-
moved ; but the works are being continued. It
seems to Mr. Balfour impossible that this should be

1898] QUEEN AND INDIA OEEICE 267

tolerated ; and very earnest remonstrances have been
addressed to the Spanish Government — so far, unfor-
tunately, with very little effect.

[Copy.'] Sir Arthur Bigge to Mr, Richmond Ritchie}

26th August 1898.

Dear Ritchie, — ^The Queen asks that Lord George
Hamilton’s attention may be called to the minutes
of the Council of India, which have been for many
years regularly submitted to her Majesty.

The Queen has for some time felt that most of the
information which these contain is practically of no
interest to her Majesty and useless as a means of
helping the Queen to form any estimate of current
events connected with the general administration of
Indian affairs.

On referring to the accompanying copy of minutes,
which is not above the usual standard of dullness,
I am sure you will admit that her Majesty’s complaint
is not without reason. Indeed, one questions whether
the time and labour occupied in writing out these
Records for the Queen might not be to a large extent
saved by suppressing the greater part of them.

Her Majesty also asks whether the heads of aU
business transacted in Council are noted in the
reports.

Under any circumstances, the Queen cannot help
realising that she is not adequately informed upon
Indian matters of interest, political, military, or
social ; and I am desired to take this opportunity of
asking the Secretary of State to be good enough to
consider in what way he can best remedy this want.
Yours very truly, Arthur Bigge.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

28th Aug. (1898). — These are the final drafts of the
Convention with Germany regarding loans to Portu-
gal : a secret Convention by which, if “ unfortun-

1 Private Secretary to Lord George Hamilton ; made K.C.B. in
1007 ; Permanent Under-Secretary at India Oifloe from 1910 to 1912,
when he died.

268 QUEEN REGENT OF SPAIN [chap, xiv

ately ” it is “ found to be impossible to maintain the
integrity of Portugal,” England and Germany agree
to jointly oppose the intervention of any third Power
in the Provinces of Mozanabiqne, Angola, or in the
island of Timor. By the Secret Note England
virtually meets the last question raised by Count
Hatzfeldt, and agrees that, if either country obtains
special concessions or privileges in those portions of
Portuguese territory whose customs revenues are
assigned to it, analogous grants must be granted to
the other Power in its assigned territory.

The Queen Regent of Spain to Queen Victoria.

Madrid, 30 AoQt 1898.

Ma CnhiiE Tante, — ^Les bontes que vous avez
toujours cues pour moi et I’int&et que vous avez
toujours temoign^ a TBspagne, m’encouragent a
m’adresser directement ^ vous pour vous entretenir
d’une affaire qui me preoccupe beaucoup dans ces
moments si difficiles que notre pauvre pays doit
traverser.

Lorsque le 17 Mars, je m’adressai a vous, ma
ch^re Tante, pour vous prier de vouloir bien m’aider
a conserver la paix, vous avez eu la bont^ de me
r^pondre le 4 Avril, apres avoir consult^ avec Lord
Salisbury, me promettant d’agir d’accord avec les
autres Puissances dans I’int^rSt de I’Espagne.^

La guerre a delate malheureusement ; toutes les
Puissances ont declare la neutralite, et I’Angleterre
de mdme ; mais bientot a mon grand chagrin j’ai vu
que les sympathies de son gouvernement se pro-
nongaient en faveur de nos ennemis. Les Ameri-
cains trouvaient dans les ports anglais du charbon,
des ressources qu’on refusait a nos vaisseaux. Les
insurges des Philippines purent dquiper et armer a
Hong-Kong une expedition qui a Manille aida les
Amerieains.

Pardonnez, chdre Tante, ma franchise ;■ je ne veux
d’aucune manidre revenir sur tout ce que j’ai souffert
^ See atove, pp. 236 and 240.

1898] ON THE WAR AND GIBRALTAR 269

cette ann^e, ou je me suis trouvee seule a lutter
contre tant de malheurs. Je confie en Dieu, qui, je
I’espere, ne nous abandonnera pas, et me donnera la
force d’accomplir jusqu’au bout mon devoir.

La raison qui m’a mis la plume a la main est la
suivante : Lorsque nous avons su que les Americains
allaient bombarder nos cotes, nous avons du fortifier
les diff^rents ports de mer et naturellement, en plein
usage de notre droit, nous avons fait construire
quelques batteries pres d’Algeciras. Quel n’a pas
et6 mon etonnement quand j’ai vu que Sir Henry D.
Wolff avait presente une note verbale demandant des
explications sur nos travaux militaires I Je vous
assure, ma ch^re Tante, que j’ai ete profondement
blessee, qu’on puisse croire que nous pensions a
nous defendre contre une nation amie. Jamais nous
n’aurions pense que I’Angleterre songeait a nous
attaquer, lorsqu’elle fit placer a Gibraltar des canons
formidables, dominant Algeciras et ses environs,

J’esp^re, ch^re Tante, que vous voudrez bien
m’aider dans cette affaire delicate et croire que je
confie pleinement en votre bonte maternelle, qui m’a
toujours encouragee et soutenue. Je ne puis croire
que mes malheurs aient change vos sentiments
envers moi.

C’est de tout mon coeur que je prie Dieu de vous
conserver toujours en bonne sante ; en vous baisant
respectueusement les mains je reste, raa chere Tante,
Votre reconnaissante et devouee niece, Marie
Christine.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, Slst Aug. 1898. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly to
inform your Majesty that the news from Spain seems
to him to be still very unsatisfactory. Mr, Balfour
has striven to formulate the demands of this country
in a manner which shall be as httle disagreeable to the
Spaniards as possible ; so far, however, no result has
followed, and the telegrams enclosed, which are the

270 MR. BALFOUR ON GIBRALTAR [chap, xiv

last Mr. Balfour has received, do not indicate much
prospect of a favourable issue. Under these circum-
stances Mr. Balfour would be glad to have your
Majesty’s approval for sending a telegram to Sir H.
Wolff somewhat as follows :

“ I earnestly hope Minister for Foreign Affairs
will speedily acquiesce in our friendly request. In
contrary event our next step would probably be a
formal demand to inspect works, to be followed in
case of refusal, by rupture of diplomatic relations with
its inevitable consequences. Make informally what
use you think desirable of this information.”

In a private note to Mr. Balfour, dated 22nd August,
Lord Salisbury makes the following observation :
“ Gibraltar looks like trouble. I suppose we shall
have to blockade Algeciras.” Mr. Balfour fears that
this prophecy may come true ; in any case, the only
way to avoid so unhappy a contingency is to convince
the Spanish Government that we are in earnest.

Mr. Richmond Ritchie to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Private. India Oitice, 81s< August 1898.

Dear Bigge,— I enclose a rigmarole letter’- in
reply to yours, which probably tells you nothing you
don’t know already.

It ought not to be difficult to devise a scheme by
which necessary papers will be sent quasi- automati-
cally ; but to organise such a system requires a httle
thought I and it is a most inconvenient moment to
have the question raised when the Secretary of State
and all the heads of Departments are away on holidays.
For this reason I am afraid there must be delay.

At present I have no idea whatever of Lord
George’s views : he simply sent me a Minute, ordering

* See above, p. 267. The official letter explains that the Council
Minutes are merely a formal official record of Council transactions,
formally sent to the Queen ever since the India Act of 1858 ; that the
really important matters either never come before the Council at all,
or do not come till “ the drafts embodying the Secretary of State’s
orders on the matters referred home by the Goveriunent of India have
been approved by him.”

1898] INDIA OFFICE PAPERS 271

inquiries at the Foreign Office and Colonial Office,
and in the Departments here. I presume when the
time comes I shall have to write you a formal letter
conveying the Secretary of State’s reply to the wishes
intimated in your letter. Meanwhile, do you think
it would be worth while to send, in boxes addressed
to the Queen, without explanation, any current papers
of real interest ?

As to the Council Minutes, Walpole, Clerk to the
Council (who was Lord Salisbury’s Private Secretary
here in ’74-’78), tells me he is only astonished the
present system has been tolerated so long. Ponsonby
used to complain to him from time to time of the
futility of the Council Minutes as a document sub-
mitted to the Queen (they of course are necessary
for the purposes of the business of the Council), and
Walpole used to explain to him that there was no op-
tion as to the form in which they had to be drawn up.
But in reply to suggestions that they should be dis-
continued, he was given to understand that where
the practice of submitting papers of the kind had been
established, it was undesirable to propose any altera-
tion of the routine. Yours very truly, Richmond
Ritchie.

P.S. — ^You will get another instalment of Minutes
to-morrow !

[Cypher Telegram.] Mr. Balfour to Qiieen Victoria.

1st Sept. 1898. Reed. 6 p.m. — ^Humble duty.
Hopes he made it plain in his letter yesterday that
there was no intention of immediately sending an
ultimatum to Spain ; his only object was to enable
Sir H. D. Wolff to give such hints as would convince
Spanish Government that we are in earnest.

[Cypher Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Mr. Balfour.

1st Sept. 1898. Sent 7.45 p.m. — ^Your further
explanation reassures me, and I approve your tele-
gram. Feared at first that you proposed to send an
ultimatum, which made me uncomfortable.

272 QUEEN WILHELMINA’S MAJORITY [chap, xiv

The Queen of the Netherlands ^ to Queen Victoria.

Paxais, La Haye, 2nd September 1898.

My dearest Aunt, — was deeply touched by
your kind and loving letter, so full of sympathy ; and
I beg to offer you my warmest thanks. Such heart-
felt wishes coming from you, who yourself have gone
through all I am feeling just now, are doubly precious
to me, and I am most grateful for the affection and
friendship you so kindly and lovingly bestow upon
me.

If God spares me to reign as long as you, dear
Aunt, then I hope I shall be able to look back upon
my government with as much satisfaction as you
can 1

Heavy responsibilities are laid upon my shoulders,
but happily I have my Mother next to me. I can
never be grateful enough that God has given me such
a wise and loving Mother, who is the greatest help and
blessing to me.

Once more expressing to you my sincerest gratitude
for your loving letter, and hoping that your stay in
Scotland will be a rest for you, I remain, dear Aunt,
with respectful love, your very affectionate niece and
sister, Wilhelmina.

General Kitchener to Private Secretary, Balmoral.
[Telegram.]

Nasri, 3rd Sept. 1898. — ^With humble duty I beg
to inform her Majesty that yesterday the British and
Egyptian forces camped six miles north of Omdurman,
and were attacked in that position this morning by a
force of some thirty-five thousand Dervishes under
the personal command of the Khalifa. The attack
was delivered with great boldness and determination,
enveloping both our flanks. After one hour’s fighting
the Dervishes were driven off with great loss, and I
then moved out of my position in the direction of
Omdurman. But very shortly after moving the

> Who had just come of ane, and assumed the reins of aovernment.

U!orci C^tcA ener of ^^^(Aha7‘^oumy
iSPS

1898] BATTLE OF OMDURMAN 273

force was again heavily attacked, and a general aetion
in the open took place ; the Dervishes were completely
defeated and dispersed by midday. At one o’clock
we watered at Khor Shambat, and at two o’clock I
advanced upon Omdurman, which I occupied without
any serious resistance. The Khalifa, who had re-
entered the town, escaped, but the whole Dervish
army has been practically destroyed.

I cannot give you for the information of her
Majesty the complete list of the killed and wounded, as
it has not yet been made out. Lieutenant R. Grenfell,
12th Lancers, and Captain Caldecot, Warwicks, were I
regret to say Idlled, and several other officers wounded,
also the Hon. [Hubert] Howard, correspondent, was
killed. Princes Christian Victor and Francis of Teck
both untouched and well. Neufeld and 150 other
prisoners have been released from prison, and are now
with us. SiRDAE.

{Telegram.'] Queen Victoria to General Kitchener.

Balmoral, Zrd Sept. (1898). — Congratulate you
and all the brave troops under fire on the brilliant
success you have achieved. Grieve for losses, but
trust wounded are doing well.

Rejoice relatives are safe. Please telegraph direct
to me. V. R. I.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, Uh Sept. 1898. — Service at eleven,
performed by Mr. Sibbald, who preached very nicely,
and brought in an allusion to our brave soldiers and
sailors. More telegrams kept coming in, several
repeating the same news in different terms. One
cannot be sufficiently thankful for the success so
anxiously waited for, but it is to be deplored that the
Khalifa escaped so far. However, he is being hotly
pursued by gunboats and cavalry.

Soon after luncheon saw Mr. Curzon, and talked
of all the difficulties lying before him, but he knows

274 GENERAL GORDON “AVENGED” [chap, xiv

India well and is free from red-tapism, so that I hope
he will do well.

\Telegram.'\ The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

ScHLOSS, Hanover, Mk Sept. 1898. — I hasten to
lay my sincerest congratulations at your feet for the
victory of Omdurman, which has crowned the difficult
and well-conceived operations after a severe, but
gallantly fought, ■'action, _ I was able to announce the
joyous tidings to the regiments assembled at the foot
of the Waterloo Column on the Place d’Armes of
Hanover, who gave three cheers for you and their
brave British comrades. William I. R.

General Kitchener to the Private Secretary, Balmoral,
[Telegram,']

Nasri, 5th Sept. 1898. — I beg you will inform her
Majesty that all the British wounded have left here
in barges towed by steamers for Abadia, where a
hospital has been prepared for them. I saw them
before leaving, they are all doing well.

The Khalifa has fled in the direction of Kordofan,
with only 130 men and a number of women.

This morning the British and Egyptian flags were
hoisted on the walls of Gordon’s Palace at Khartoum,
upon which occasion enthusiastic cheers for her
Majesty were given by both British and Egyptian
troops ; subsequently an impressive memorial service
was held at the place where Gordon died.^ Sirdar.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to General Kitchener.

Balmoral, 5th Sept. 1898. — ^Have heard with
deepest interest of the hoisting of the flags, and the
memorial service where poor Gordon met his cruel
fate, and also that the wounded are doing well.

Trust Khalifa will be captured. Pray telegraph
direct to me. V. R. I.

1 “ Surely he is avenged,” wrote the Queen in her Journal tlie same
day.

1898] PEERAGE FOR SIR H. KITCHENER

275

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.’]

Balmoral Castle, 5th Sept. 1898. — Don’t you
think the Sirdar ought to receive some mark of dis-
tinction or reward, as he has conducted this brilliant
affair with consummate skill ? If you thought [fit]
I think of a Peerage. I should much wish to announce
it to him myself if you propose it.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

6th Sept. 1898. — ^Plumbic duty. I concur in your
Majesty’s opinion most fully.

It will very much enhance the value of the pro-
posed honour in the eyes of Kitchener if he receives
the announcement of it direct from your Majesty. I
am sending a submission by the messenger ; but no
doubt your Majesty will send the announcement to
Sir H. Kitchener at once.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to General Kitchener.

Balmoral, 6th Sept. 1898. — It is with feelings of
admiration and thankfulness that I announce to you
my intention of conferring a peerage on you as a
mark of my deep sense of the services you have
rendered under such most difficult and trying circum-
stances. V. R. I.

The Khedive Abbas to Queen Victoria.
[Telegramme.]

Divonne, 7 Sept. 1898. — ^Je suis tres touche de
la depeche que votre Majesty Royale et Imperiale a
daigne m’adresser. Nos armees reunies viennent
d’aj outer encore a la gloire qu’elles avaient dej4
acquisc. Que votre Majesty me permette de lui
presenter mes respectueuses felicitations pour le
courage et la grande vaillance des officiers et des
soldats anglais ! .Abbas Hilmi.

276 SERIOUS OUTBREAK IN CRETE [chap, xiv

[Telegram.] General Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

Omdueman, Sth Sept. 1898. — In thanking your
Majesty for your telegram of to-day, I beg to inform
your Majesty that the Khalifa has up till now escaped
our troops, but the friendly Arabs who are still in
pursuit will I hope catch him. The Camel Corps under
Major Tudray have just returned, having pursued
him for fifty miles. The Khalifa left his women on
the road, including the mother of Sheik Eddin, his
eldest son; they are now being cared for in our camp.
I am moving the British troops down to Cairo as soon
as transport becomes available.

The Warwicks, Lincolns, and Seaforths have left,
and your Majesty’s Cameron Highlanders are just
leaving. All troops are in the best of spirits.
Wounded continue to do well.

I propose to leave in gunboats for Fashoda
to-morrow or next day with one hundred Cameron
Highlanders and some Sudanese and Egyptian troops.
SiBDAE.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Qth Sept. 1898. — ^News from Crete most serious.^
Surely we cannot stand our Vice-Consul being killed.

V. R. I.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Qth Sept. 1898. — ^Humble duty. I am in com-
munication with the Russian Government as to the
measures to be taken. Their objection to interfering
with the claims of the Turkish Government has been
the main obstacle to establishment of an effective
Government in Crete.

[Telegram.] Queen Emma to Queen Victoria.

La Have, 10th Sept. 1898. — ^Am most grateful for
your kind telegram. We are both quite well, only a
* See Introductory Note to this chapter.

1898] AUSTRIAN EMPRESS ASSASSINATED 277

little tired. Everything passed off beautifully.^
Wilhelmina sends with me her respectful love. Emma.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 10th Sept. 1898. — telegram from the
Press Association, which was soon followed by one
from Reuter, announcing that the poor dear Empress
of Austria had been assassinated at Geneva by an
Italian anarchist ! These startling and awful news
gave us all a terrible shock, but I would not believe
it could be true at first, and sent to enquire in every
direction. However, the news was soon officially
confirmed ; and after dinner I got the following
cypher from Sir H. Rumbold ® : “ News just been re-
ceived from Geneva that H.M. the Empress has been
assassinated by an Italian anarchist, when landing
from the steamer. The Empress, stabbed to the
heart, almost at once succumbed. The Prime Minis-
ter has gone to Schonbriin at once to break the news
to the Emperor.” Telegraphed at once to the poor
Emperor.

Sir Horace Bumbold to Queen Victoria.

Vienna, 11th Sept. 1898. — Sir Horace Rumbold,
with his most humble duty to the Queen, begs to state
for your Majesty’s information that he has just seen
Count Goluchowski, who describes the Emperor as
bearing up in the most wonderful manner, and being
able to attend to matters of business with his habitual
exactness and punctuahty. When the dreadful news
was first broken to his Majesty he seemed completely
stunned, and, sinking into a chair, remained motion-
less and silent for some time. He soon, however,
rallied, and addressing the Archduke Francis Ferdin-
and, who had hastened to Schonbriin, exclaimed :
“ Mir bleibt doch gar nichts erspart auf dieser
Welt.”

1 On the occasion of the attainment of the majority and the
enthronement of Queen WilhelmiDa.

® British Ambassador in Vienna.

278 THE QUEEN’S SYMPATHY [chap, xit

It is some comfort to think that the stab to which
the Empress succumbed so pierced the heart that her
Majesty can have scarcely suffered at all, and, after
a few moments when she does not seem to have realised
the character of the blow dealt to her, she became
and remained unconscious till the end.

The principal members of her Majesty’s household
have left for Geneva, and the arrangements made are
such as will probably make it possible for the funeral
to take place next Saturday, the 17th. The Emperor’s
favourite daughter, Archduchess Marie Valerie,
arrived here at Jive o’clock this morning, and will be
invaluable to his Majesty in his terrible distress of
mind.

The impression produced by this dreadful event
on all classes throughout the Empire, and the sym-
pathy for the Emperor is such that the hope may
almost be indulged that it may lead to a more con-
ciliatory and reasonable spirit in the Reichsrath, which
is summoned for the 26th, and render possible some
settlement of the momentous questions which so
affect the future of the monarchy. In Hungary,
where the Empress was greatly beloved, the feeling
for the Emperor in his bereavement is certain to be
very strong indeed.

The Emperor of Austria to Queen Victoria.
[Telegrams — Translation.]

ScHONBRUN, 11th Sept. 1898. — ^Deeply moved by
your words of profound sympathy with my in-
expressible grief. I beg you to accept my warmest
thanks for your kind compassion.

17th Sept. — ^After the melancholy hours spent in
escorting my dearly beloved wife for the last time,
only your affectionate message of remembrance,
which has just come, can give me any comfort. I
thank you from my heart for including her who can
never be forgotten and me in your prayers, and
fervently beseech God to pour every messing upon
you. Francis Joseph.

1898J

bPAlN AND GlDHALTAR

279

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Hotel Alteneerg, Munster, 11th Sept. 1898 . —
Lord Salisbury with his humble duty acknowledges
with his respectful thanks your Majesty’s gracious
letter, enclosing a most interesting and pathetic
letter ^ from the Queen Regent of Spain.

He is very much distressed to find that her Majesty
imputes to your Majesty’s Government partiahty of
conduct during the recent war. Lord Salisbury
believes the accusation to be absolutely groundless.
Every effort was made to ensure in all our ports the
observance of the most scrupulous neutrality ; and
Lord Salisbury has not heard of a single instance in
which this rule was broken. He feels certain that the
Queen Regent has been deceived in this matter. Of
course he was painfully aware that the newspaper
press took a most partial and one-sided view ; but
her Majesty must be perfectly aware that the Govern-
ment in England has no hold whatever over the Press,
which is absolutely free.

Mr. Balfour will have put your Majesty entirely
in possession of the facts with respect to Gibraltar.
The case is an awkward one ; and the Spanish
Government has been very imprudent. Lord Salis-
bury has done what seemed possible to prevent the
negotiations from assuming an angry character. He
thinks that now the Queen Regent might usefully
interfere simply to prevent large guns being taken to
places where they would be dangerous to the harbour
of Gibraltar ; but it would probably be dangerous
for her to bring back at present one or two that have
already been moved.

All that for the moment it is possible to do with
respect to Crete is to move up reinforcements ; and
that is being done. We are trying to induce the
Powers — that is to say Russia — to take energetic
steps ; not as yet with any manifest success. If
they decline to do anything to bring this disgraceful

* See above, p. 268.

280 QUEEN’S ANSWER TO QUEEN REGENT [chap, xiv

state of things to a close, we must consider whether
England cannot do something in that direction by
herself.

The telegraph to Khartoum has broken again, so
that communication with the Sirdar has become
impossible.

What a terrible catastrophe at Geneva ! Fortune
seems never tired of pursuing the Emperor of
Austria.

Lord Salisbury is greatly rejoiced that Mr. Curzon
has satisfied your Majesty.

Lord Salisbury thinks your Majesty might with
great advantage communicate with the Queen Regent
in the sense he has suggested.

Queen Victoria to the Queen Regent of Spain.
[ Copie ,^ Baimoral Castle, 12 (?) Septenibre 1808 .

Ma CnkRE Niece, — ^Je suis peniblement emue de
voir, par votre lettre, que vous ayez pu douter de mes
sentiments de bonne loi envers vous et votre pays,
et de la tres sincere part que j’ai prise aux malheurs
qui vous touchent si cruellement.

J’espere dissiper le malentendu qui semble s’etre
fait dans votre esprit au sujet de Tattitude de TAngle-
terre envers I’Espagne, en vous prouvant, que d’apres
mes informations aupres de Lord Salisbury, il r^sulte
que vous avez ete mal renseignee sur les differents
points qui forment la matiere de votre lettre. Je
comprends que I’attitude partiale de la presse Anglaise
vis-a-vis de la guerre ait fait naitre I’impression
erronee que mon Gouvernement favorisait plutot
I’Amerique que I’Espagne. Mais je puis vous
assurer que tel n’a pas ete le cas. L’enti^re liberte
de presse existe chez nous, le Gouvernement ne
subventionne aucun journal, de sorte que ceux-ci
n’expriment pas du tout les sentiments unanimes de
la nation.

Tons nos efforts ont tendu a observer une scrupu-
leuse neutralite et je n’ai eu connaissance d’aucun cas
ou cette r^gle ait ^te violee.

1898] CRETE: THE SOUDAN 281

Quant a la question disputee des nouveaux
armements a Algeciras, il n’a jamais 4te question de
notre cote de vouloir nous defendre centre I’Espagne ;
ainsi je ne crois pas, chere niece, que vous ayez la un
motif de penser que nos sentiments, envers vous et
votre pays, aient change. Pour le moment il me
semble qu’il n’y a rien de naieux a faire que d’en
Tester la, sans prendre de nouvelles mesures rigoureuses
pour fortifier les cotes de votre pays.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.']

Balmoeal Castle, 12th Sept. 1898. — The murder
of our Vice-Consul and the killing and wounding of
our officers and men in Crete demand reparation on
the part of the Sultan. We cannot let this pass
quietly. It is enough to provoke a war. We really
cannot wait for the other Powers in what concerns us.

As long as the Khalifa is not caught we must feel
that we have not entirely ended the Soudan difficulties,
and a strong force should be kept, till he is captured,
at Omdurman or Khartoum, and additional British
troops should not leave Cairo. We always have made
the mistake of sending our troops away too soon.

How horrible is this assassination of the poor
Empress of Austria !

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

IMh Sept. 1898. — ^Humble duty. We have not
yet information enough to make a demand of the
Sultan. Undoubtedly we must have a reparation
if these outrages were either committed or connived
at by the Turkish troops. We shall know more
shortly when Colonel Chermside^ arrives. Before we
act, we are bound to know what our Allies in the
Occupation mean to do.

I have no doubt Sirdar will be very careful to leave

' British. Military Commissioner in Crete ; afterwards General Sir
Herbert Chermside.

282 D. OF CONNAUGHT AND FRENCH ARMY [cuap. xiv

as many troops at Khartoum as are necessary ; for
he never malces the mistake of not looking ahead.
But I believe we cannot communicate with him till
he returns from Fashoda.

Lord George Hamilton to Sir Arthur Bigge.

North Berwick, 15 th September 1898.

My deae. Bigge, — ^Ritchie sent me your letters
about the Queen’s desire for more information from
the India Office and I have been trying to substitute
some method of giving expression to the Queen’s
wishes. There is no similarity between our work and
that of the Foreign Office : we are a supervising
administrative office, and nineteen-twentieths of our
business is dull, and deals with prosaic business. I
will in a few days submit to the Queen definite and I
hope satisfactory ideas.

I am in my golfing paradise. Believe me, yours
very truly, George Hamilton.

[TeUgramme.] President Faure to Queen Victoria.

Moulins Prefecture, 16 Sept. 1 898. — Je suis tres
touche de la depSche qu’a bien voulu m’adresser votre
Majeste. Nous avons ete heureux de recevoir son
Altesse Royale le Due de Connaught, ct il nous est
agr cable de constater que son s6jour au milieu de
I’arm^e lui laisse un bon souvenir. Nous sommes
charmes de la satisfaction qu’en eprouve votre
Majeste. Felix Faure.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

18th Sept. 1 898. — ^Humble duty. A telegram from
Sir A, Biliotti has reached me. It is numbered 72,
but is probably the one your Majesty mentions.

The objection to making by force Colonel Cherm-
side Governor of Candia, is that such a measure is
not exacting reparation, but taking possession. It
would be looked upon by the other Powers as an act
of bad faith, and as justifying the suspicion that we
1 See above, pp. 267 and 270.

288

1898] M. CAMBON FOR FRENCH EMBASSY

intend, to annex the island, which they have enter-
tained all along.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, \^th Sept. 1898. — Georgie and May with
little David arrived at a quarter to one. In the after-
noon drove with Jane C[hurchill] to the Dantzig,
where Beatrice and May joined us for tea. When I
came up to my room [after dinner] Jane C[hurchill]
came to wish me good-bye, which I regret very much.
She is almost the last remaining of my intimate
friends.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Fleetwood Edwards.
[Cypher Telegram.\

IQth Sept. 1898. Reed. 10.15 p.m. — Pray submit
to her Majesty that the French President proposes to
appoint M. Gambon’- Ambassador to her Majesty;
and also submit my respectful request that I may
convey to the French Government her Majesty’s
approval. If you receive it pray telegraph to Sir E.
Monson so as not to lose time.

Queen Victoria to Sir Edmund Monson.
[Cypher Telegram.']

Balmoral Castle, \^th Sept. 1898. — I approve
appointment, and appreciate the motive which
prompted the choice of M. Gambon.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 21sf Sept. 1898. — Omitted to
say in my letter yesterday that my telegram to the
Sirdar telhng that I conferred a peerage on him which
I sent on 5th or 6th has never reached him,’’ and that
I therefore have got no answer. It is very anno3dng,

’ He was described by the French Foreign Minister to Sir E. Monson
as “ an Ambassador notoriously most friendly and inspired with the
best disposition towards England.”

“ The telegram did not reach Omdurman until after the Sudar had
gone south.

284 LORD SALISBURY ON CRETE [chap, xiv

as the good effect of the early recognition of his ser-
vices has thus been marred.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

FonniGN Office, 22nd Sept 1898. — Lord Salis-
bury with his humble duty respectfully thanks your
Majesty for your very gracious letter. Both Lord and
Lady Salisbury have derived great advantage in
health from a three weeks’ stay at (or rather near) the
Schlucht, a singularly beautiful place on the ridge of
the Vosges.

The difficulty of sending messages to the Sirdar
during the week following the battle has been exceed-
ingly annoying. It has been due entirely to the line
of telegraph having been broken in two or three
places, a mishap which could not possibly have been
prevented, whether it was due to sheer accident or to
the ill-wiU of some dervish stragglers.

With respect to Crete, Lord Salisbury entirely
agrees with your Majesty that full reparation must
be exacted from those who have committed grave
outrages on your Majesty’s Vice-Consul and soldiers.
The prisoners accused are to be tried before a tribunal
established by the Admirals ; and leave has been
given to execute any sentence pronounced, even a
death sentence, without reference home, so far as your
Majesty’s Government is concerned. Evidence is
being collected to ascertain how far the Turkish
authorities are implicated ; but we have no report
from Sir H. Chermside on that point.

The question of moving the Turkish troops out of
the island is, at all events, in the first instance a ques-
tion for the four Powers. Their decisions are slow,
because the Emperor of Russia has gone to the Crimea,
not taking with him either a Secretary or a cypher
book. He can only therefore be communicated with
by messenger.

Lord Salisbury feels deeply the truth of your
Majesty’s words, with respect to the awful murder of
the Empress of Austria. But it is very difficult for

1898] UP THE WHITE NILE 285

US to press other Governments to expel these monsters,
when Parliament will not give the power of expelling
foreign anarchists to your Majesty’s Government.

Private. Colonel Wingate to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Dal, orF Abba Island, White Nile, 23rd September 1898.

My dear Bigge, — The few days following our
fight and preceding our departure for Fashoda were
such busy ones that it was impossible to carry out
my intention of writing to you, and now we are almost
back again at Khartoum. We are due there to-
morrow morning, after just a fortnight’s absence up
this uninteresting river, uninteresting I mean as
regards scenery and detestable as to climate, but
interesting to a degree in all we have seen and done.
As I daresay you know, before leaving Omdurman
the dervish steamer Tewjikia suddenly arrived there
in complete ignorance of our presence. She had been
sent down by the dervish Emir of the White Nile
with a demand to the Khalifa for immediate rein-
forcements in order to drive the hated “ Turk ” out
of Fashoda, where he had installed himself; there
had already been a scrimmage between them, and the
dervish had retired. ... Of course we had very little
doubt who the Turk was, for in this country all who
are not natives are so styled, and there was no
difficulty in identifying this one with M, Marchand.

Instead, however, of dervish reinforcements, five
gunboats with British and Soudanese steamers left
Omdurman on the 10th September, and steamed
slowly up this huge river. Five days later we came
abreast of the dervish camp at Renk (300 miles
south of Khartoum), and here was a fresh surprise
for the dervish ; instead of the thousands of faithful
Mahdists he had expected, he suddenly found the
hated Turk coming from the north, and, without
hesitation, he foolishly tried conclusions with him,
but he was quite unequal to the task, and in less than
half an hour the camp was in our hands and the
dervish Emir a wounded prisoner on board this boat.

286 THE MEETING AT EASHODA [chap, xiv

Then we continued our way south. The villagers of
the great Shillulc tribe through which we passed
gazed at us in astonishment; no doubt they have
come up, they said, to aid their brothers at Fashoda
who had come from the west. . . .

As we got close to Fashoda we sent a letter to the
Chief of the European expedition saying the Sirdar
with British and Egyptian troops and gunboats
would shortly arrive. This was on the evening of
the 18th, and on the morning of the 19th, as we
were steaming along, a little row-boat hove in sight
almost swamped by a gigantic tricolour ; it came
alongside, and a black sergeant, with much ceremony,
delivered Marehand’s reply to the Sirdar, in which
that gentleman stated that in accordance with the
instructions of his Government he had occupied the
Bahr-el-Ghazal and Fashoda, had made a Treaty
with the Shilluk Chief who had placed all his country
under French protection, and that on the Sirdar’s
arrival he would be happy to salute him in the name of
France. In due time we tied up close to the Mudiria,
over which the French flag floated, and Marchand with
Captain Germain came on board ; and then followed
a very interesting conversation, the upshot of which
was that M[archand] admitted our vastly superior
force. ... At the same time he said that he had
only carried out his orders in coming on to the Nile,
and he could not retire or haul down his flag without
orders, and if we forced him to do so he had no alter-
native but to die at his post. I then went out with
Germain to look for a place on which to hoist the flag,
and eventually a ruined bastion of the old Egyptian
fortifications was selected about 500 yards south of the
French flag. . . . Here the flag was hoisted with much
ceremony, and Jackson was nominated Governor and
Commandant with a strong garrison. . . .

We have resumed the government of the country,
and the great Shilluk Chief is now located with a large
following in the Egyptian camp, and declaring ^y all
he holds sacred that he never made any treaty with

1898] M. MARCHAND’S POSITION 287

the French. One cannot help having a twinge of pity
and not a little admiration for this gallant little band
of eight Frenchmen and 120 black soldiers who have
for the last two years undergone terrible hardships. . . .
Just imagine the position ! Here is Marchand in a
perfectly untenable place, from which the state of the
country makes retreat impossible, cut off from his
nearest supports by hundreds of miles of most diffi-
cult country, short of ammunition and supplies, and
within easy striking distance of a huge dervish army,
which could have and would have crushed him as a
hammer does a nut, had our arrival at Khartoum
been delayed a fortnight. In short, our expedition
has rescued the French expedition, and I think one
and all of them thoroughly realise it ; they told us
how the news of our approach had been conveyed to
them as the approach of a great dervish force, that
they had been working day and night on their slender
lines, and how they knew they could never have met a
determined attack. ... I hope the instructions [for
Marchand’s recall] will not be long in coming, both
for the sake of the poor men who need feeding up
and care after all their hardships, as for the smooth
working of the new administration which cannot be
quite untrammelled until they go. . . . Ever yours,
F. R. Wingate.

[Telegram.] General Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

' Omdurman, 24<th Sept. 1898. — With humble duty.
It is with feelings of the most profound gratitude
that I have this day received your Majesty’s most
gracious telegram conveying the intention of con-
ferring a Peerage on me. Such an honour is far
beyond my merits, and in humbly accepting your^
Majesty’s most gracious favour it is my fervent hope’
that by employing all my energies in the service of my
Queen and country I may become more worthy of this
great mark of distinction.'- Sirdak.

^ The Queen’s comment on this telegram in her Journal is that it
•was “ most nicely and modestly expressed.”

288

DEATH OF QUEEN OF DENMAEK [chat, xtv

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

^Gth Sept. 1898. — . . . Her Majesty’s Ambassador
at Paris was instructed to read to the French Minister
for Foreign Affairs the two telegrams from the
Sirdar respecting M. Marchand at Fashoda,^ and to
say that her Majesty’s Government entirely approved
Sirdar’s proceedings and language.

Sir E. Monson reports the Minister for Foreign
Affairs expressed satisfaction at the manner in which
meeting had passed, and said he would submit con-
tents of the telegrams to the Council of Ministers
to-morrow morning.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoeal, 2%ih Sept. 1898. — ^Beatrice came in to
me to bring the news of the poor Queen of Denmark’s
death, which Alix had telegraphed to me in the
following words : “ Our beloved Mother passed away at
six this morning. No words can describe our sorrow.”
I am so much grieved, for I know what a blow it
will be to the poor King and all their children, who
were so devoted to her. For the Queen herself,
it is a mercy she is at last at rest. I am so thankful
dear Alix was with her all this time, she and her two
sisters having done everything they could for their
mother. I saw the Queen for the first time at
Laeken, when she and Prince Christian brought Alix
to see me.®

The answer of the French Government about
Fashoda is not very satisfactory, though the Minister
of Foreign Affairs is personally very friendly.

SQth Sept. — A very wet morning. Could not get
out. More telegrams about Fashoda. The French
Government is in such difficulties that it begs not to
be pressed, and is afraid to order Marchand to come

^ These telegrams were of course to the same effect as the letter of
Colonel Wingate to Sir Arthur Bigge.

“ See Second Series, vol. i, pp. 48-44.

1898] “DAVID” IN A KILT 289

away, who, on the other hand, cannot possibly
remain there, for lack of provisions and water. He
can only communicate through us.

The Queen Regent of Spain to Queen Victoria.
[Translation.] Madrid, 1 st October 1898.

Dear Aunt, — I thank you with my whole heart
for both your infinitely kind letters, which have
completely set my mind at rest with regard to the
friendly intentions of England toward Spain.

Allow me to send you most particular thanks for
your loving words which assure me of your goodwill.
Pardon me, dear Aunt, for having addressed myself
directly to you, but I was so upset and oppressed by
anxiety that I longed to confide in you and unburden
my heart to you. For your kind attitude and
intentions let me once more gratefully kiss your hands.

It was with the greatest sorrow that I learnt of
the death of the dear Queen of Denmark, and send
you my deepest sympathy in this sad loss. I also
thank you very much for your kind sympathy con-
cerning the horrible murder of the Empress. I feel
so infinitely sorry for the poor Emperor.

May I ask you, dear Aunt, to give my kindest
greetings to dear Beatrice ? Thanking you again
from my heart for everything, I remain, dear Aunt,
your grateful and devoted niece, Maria Christina.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 2nd Oct. 1898,, — ^Dear little David
appeared for the first time in a kilt I gave him, of
which he is very proud, and in which he looked
charming.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 2nd Oct. 1898. — Sir E. Mon-
son’s telegrams received here this morning are most
unsatisfactory. It seems a deadlock ; the French

290 FASHODA—DEADLOCK [chap, xtv

Government do not telegraph Marchand to leave, and
he will he starved out and be unable to remain for
want of water. Could we not delay till the French
Government receive his report, which can, I believe,
only come through us ?

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

8rd Oct. 1898. — ^Humble duty. I deeply sym-
pathise with your Majesty’s dissatisfaction at the
present deadlock.

We, however, are doing nothing, but only waiting,
and we cannot do anything else. No offer of terri-
torial concession on our part would be endured by
public opinion here.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, Srd Oct. 1898. — Received your
cypher. Quite agree. We cannot give way. Think
the want of water and provisions will force Marchand
to leave. If we wait I tliinlc the force of circumstances
will bring the French to their senses.

Captain Sadi Carnot to Sir Edmund Monson.^

Pabis, ce 8 Oclobre 1898.

Monsieur l’Ambassadeur, — ^Ma famille est bien
vivement emue du temoignage particulier de sym-
pathie que Sa Majeste la Reine Victoria a daigne vous
charger de lui transmettre, a I’occasion de la perte si
cruelle que nous venons d’eprouver dans la personne
de ma mere bien-aimee.®

Mes freres se joignent a moi pour prier Yotre
Excellence de vouloir bien porter a Sa Majeste, dont
la bonte nous fut precieuse dans un autre et bien
douloureux moment, I’hommage de notre profonde
reconnaissance.

Veuillez agreer. Monsieur I’Ambassadeur, I’ex-

^ Submitted by Sir Edmund Monson to Queen Victoria.

2 Tlip wiflow of Pr’^ident O' Trn+

FRENCH CLAIMS

291

1898]

pression de mes plus devoues sentiments, Carnot,
Capitaine 39° Infanterie.

Eociract from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoral, Qlh Oct. 1898. — After luncheon Lord
Minto,i who kissed hands on his appointment as
Governor-General of Canada, which he is delighted at.
I also saw Mary Minto for a little while, who asked
my advice as to what she should and should not do.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.']

12th Oct. (1898). — Humble duty. Following sent
to Paris No. 223. I have had another long conversa-
tion with French Ambassador, in which his Excellency
said that, if Marchand retired from Fashoda, he could
not descend the Nile, but must return by the way he
came. For this .purpose it would be necessary that
we should allow him to be supplied with provisions
and ammunition. I said we would not object to M.
Marchand taking this route, but that if ammunition
were supplied to him, it could only be to protect him
from the natives and on the condition that it was
only used against them, and that he undertook to
retire as far as the water-shed of the Ubanghi. To
this the French Ambassador did not assent. He then,
after much preliminary rhetoric, said his instructions
were to claim for France free access to the Nile from
her Congo possessions, for which purpose she required
a post on the navigable part of the Bahr-el-Ghazal.
The French Government were ready to come to an
arrangement simultaneously for the delimitation of
the two spheres in country east of Lake Chad. I
made no reply to this proposal, except to say that it
was far too grave a matter to be discussed in the
absence of my colleagues, but that I would duly
submit it to their examination.

^ The 4th Earl : Governor-General of Canada 1898-1904 ; Viceroy
of India 1905-1910.

292

THE QUEEN AND ARMY BANDS [ciiap. xiv

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

[Copi/.] T^Sih October 1898.

Dear Lord Lansdowne, — The Queen desires me
to write to you on the following subject :

For some time her Majesty has felt that there is
much need for a reconsideration of the position of
Bandmasters in the Army. At present, so far as
concerns rank, pay, and pension, it compares very
unfavourably with that of Riding-masters, Quarter-
masters, and School Inspectors. No doubt the official
responsibility of these latter is great from a military
and discipline point of view; still, upon the Band-
masters higher demands are made as to education,
intellectual powers, and culture ; and I suppose that
it will be admitted that a good band helps to make a
good regiment, and thus may fairly be reckoned as a
necessary factor in the efficiency of the Army.

But the Bandmasters are debarred from that
advancement which is within reach of every soldier
who joins the ranks, including even schoolmasters.
This seems to the Queen unfair. Either they should
be, as formerly, civilians, or, if not, they should at
least have equal rights with other soldiers.

Her Majesty is aware that hitherto there has been
no complaint on the part of the Bandmasters them-
selves, and that no difficulty is experienced in obtain-
ing candidates for the post as at present constituted.
But this cheerful acceptance of their anomalous
position appears to the Queen all the more reason for
doing something to improve it ; and there is, I imagine,
every reason to believe that were it possible for them
to receive a commission, a better class, both profes-
sionally and socially speaking, would thereby be
attracted to the Army. There would be obviously a
consequent increased expenditure, but the Queen does
not believe that this would be opposed by the
Treasury.

The Army would benefit by getting a superior
class of Bandmasters and better bands ; to thp art of

293

1898] COMMISSIONS POE BANDMASTERS?

music a graceful tribute would be paid, and what
seems little short of an injustice removed.

At present one may say that the only prizes to
which a Bandmaster may aspire are the principal
bands, such as the R.A., the R.E.,and Guards, Marines,
and Household Cavalry. Recognising this fact, H.M.
thinks that it might be advisable to reserve the com-
missions for these bands, thus maldng the prize still
more valuable, and so stimulating other Bandmasters
to qualify for these vacancies as they occur. The
Queen suggests that a certain number of commissions
should be given entirely by selection to those Band-
masters who, by their musical abilities, length of
service, or excellence of their bands, are considered
most worthy of advancement. Perhaps it might be
necessary to limit these commissions to three or
four.

Her Majesty would wish now to give three com-
missions, viz . : (1) Mr, C, Godfrey, &ues ; (2) Mr.
Zavertal, R.A. ; and (3) Mr. Miller, Portsmouth
Division R.M.L.I.

Her Majesty proposes these names for the follow-
ing reasons :

(1) On account of his long service and being
master of a very good band in one of the Household
Cavalry regiments.

(2) As a recognition of the very high standard of
efficiency to which he has brought his band, both
military and orchestral, and of his eminent musical
ability.

(3) Although this will be dealt with by the Admir-
alty, it is included in the general proposal. The
Queen can perhaps speak with more personal know-
ledge of this band than of any other. It plays both
as military and orchestral, frequently during H.M.’s
residence at Osborne, and excels under Mr. Miller, of
whose musical acquirements the best proof has been
given by his passing the examination for a Bach, of
Music of the University of Oxford.

The details of the above proposal are only sugges-

294 M. DBLCASSE AND FASHODA [chap, xiv

tions. But the Queen feels sure of your concurrence
with its general principle. H-M. therefore trusbs that
you will be able to advise such changes in the Regula-
tions as may be necessary to carry it into effect.^

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

18th Oct. (1898). — ^Humble duty. Following re-
ceived from Sir E. Monson:

“ Fashoda. I learn from the Austrian Charge
d’ Affaires, who had a long conversation yesterday
with Mons. Delcasse, that his Excellency showed
considerable resentment at the publication of the Blue
Book, which he said had been intended to intimidate
him by arousing public opinion in England.

“ The Minister’s language in declaring he was not
to be cowed was unusually warm. His Excellency
told the Austrian Charge d’Affaires that France must
insist on having a trade outlet from the Ubanghi to the
Nile, which is an international river, not to be appro-
priated exclusively by the English, Germans, and
Belgians.

“ The Austrian Charge d’ Affaires, who is on cordial
terms with M. Delcasse, says that he told the Minister
that it seemed to him that the present question was
not one of rights but of facts, and that the latter at any
rate were against France,

“ In thanking him for his information I laid
stress upon the absolute impossibility of our abating
one iota of our claim.”

Thursday, 20th Oct. — ^Lord Salisbury with his
humble duty to your Majesty respectfully submits
that in obedience to your Majesty’s commands con-
veyed through Lord Cross, he saw Sir Edward Brad-
ford yesterday on the anarchist question. Sir Edward

' Lord Lansdowne, replying on the 15th October, said that he would
lose no time in making enquiries, and then, when he was in possession
of the facts, maldng a submission to the Queen. On 20th October
Mr. Gosehen wrote that he was giving her Majesty’s wish about Mr.
Miller, of the R.M.L.I., his best attention. See below, pp. 312, 817,
ond f '’"’,

295

1898] BRITAIN AND FOREIGN ANARCHISTS

has been recently married, and therefore was not
available before. He is strongly against any interna-
tional action being taken against the anarchists as
such ; because it is impossible to define an anarchist,
or to declare what men are anarchists and what are
not. He has no aversion to an extension of the
general power of the Government to expel aliens from
this country, if Parliament should be disposed to con-
fer such a power upon the Government ; but he does
not believe that Parliament will confer such a power,
which is probably a just opinion. Lord Salisbury
questioned him very closely with respect to the pre-
cautions to be taken for your Majesty’s safety. He
replied that of course he would take any further
measures that were thought expedient ; but that in
his conviction your Majesty was as safe as any person
in your dominions. He insisted very much that no
English anarchist had ever been found ; and that even
foreign anarchists made no criminal attempts here,
because the atmosphere of opinion in which they found
themselves here was so strongly against it.

Lord Salisbury was careful to impress upon Sir
William Lockhart (who dined and slept here on
Monday) the considerations with respect to the treat-
ment of the natives upon which your Majesty laid so
much stress. He appeared to concur entirely in your
Majesty’s views, and will no doubt heartily give effect
to them. He was less satisfactory on the subject of
Sir R. Warburton. He evidently thought that a man
who was half an Afghan by blood could not be fully
trusted. But his formal answer to any recommenda-
tion of Warburton was that his health was now so
broken down that he was practically disqualified from
attempting any work of an exhausting kind.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 21st Oct. 1898. — Shortly before dinner
many cypher telegrams about Fashoda arrived.
What is taking place is very amazing, but I do not give
up hope of all yet coming right.

296

“LIFE OF GLADSTONE”

[chap. XIV

Mr, MorUy to Sir Arthur Bigge.

S7 Elm Park Gardkns, 21if October 1898.

Dear Sib, Aethue, Bigge, — I venture to ask you
to be so good as to lay before the Queen, at a suitable
moment, what I should not think it proper or respeet-
ful that her Majesty should first learn through any
public channel.

It is that I have, on the strong invitation of the
trustees, undertaken to write the biography of Mr.
Gladstone. He was for so many years in her Majesty’s
service, and took part in so many important transac-
tions during the reign, that I believe the project may
be of interest to her Majesty.

I need not say how sensible I am of the arduous
nature of the task, nor with how much hesitation and
humility I approach it. Some portion of the burden
would be relieved, if I might hope that the work would
have the good fortune of her Majesty’s gracious
countenance and approval. Believe me, yours very
faithfully, John Morley.

[Copy.] Sir Arthur Bigge to Mr. Morley.

Balmoral, ZSth October 1898,

My dear Mr. Morley, — ^The Queen desires me
to thank you for your consideration in letting her
Majesty know that you have undertaken to write the
biography of Mr. Gladstone.^

It is a matter of great satisfaction to the Queen
that to you has been entrusted this laborious and
essentially responsible work. The fact of its dis-
tinguished authorship will, the Queen believes, ensure

^ Mr. Herbert Gladstone, on behalf of the executors, had also
conveyed the information to the Queen through Sir Arthur Bigge, and
had received through the same channel her Majesty’s thanks and
satisfaction, together with a reminder that “ the Queen concludes that
none of the correspondence between her and Mr. Gladstone will be
published without being submitted to H.M.” Mr. Herbert Gladstone
wrote on 30th October that “ the executors would consider it a primary
duty to ascertain her Majesty’s pleasure before proposing to publish
any correspondence between her Majesty and my father.” See also
below, pp. 302-3.

297

1898] MR. MORLEY AND THE QUEEN

its recognition as a standard history for all time. Tor
this reason her Majesty feels sure that you will appre-
ciate the importance of treating the subject imparti-
ally, uninfluenced as much as possible by the strong
personal affection and loyal political attachment
which is known to have existed between you and Mr.
Gladstone. Yours, A. B.

Sir Nicholas O'' Conor ^ to Queen Victoria,

Therapia, 24i/i Oct. 1898. — Sir Nicholas O’Conor
presents his humble duty to the Queen.

In obedience to her Majesty’s commands, Sir
Nicholas did not fail, at his audience of the 14th inst.,
to tell the Sultan that he had been desired by his
gracious Sovereign to recommend to his Majesty’s
special care the Queen’s numerous Indian subjects
who annually made pilgrimages to Mecca.

Sir Nicholas referred to complaints which had
reached her Majesty’s ears respecting the unjust and
vexatious treatment to which her Majesty’s Indian
Mussulman subjects were constantly exposed on their
long and wearisome travels to Mecca, and of the pain
which these reports caused to her Majesty.

The complaints appear to be well founded,
and Sir Nicholas was commanded by his gracious
Sovereign to express the hope that the Sultan would
be pleased to give imperative orders to prevent the
repetition of such grievances, and also for the better
treatment in future of Indian pilgrims to Mecca.

The Sultan enquired as to the particular grievances
complained of, and after listening attentively to the
statements made by Sir Nicholas respecting the cruel
extortions, vexatious delays and other reprehensible
proceedings of the officials, his Majesty spoke as
follows :

“ He was not only a Moslem Sovereign himself, but
also the Caliph. It was right and natural therefore
that he should take an interest in all Moslems, of what-
ever nationality, repairing to the Holy Mecca. His

1 British Aiiihassartor at Constantinople.

298 PILGKIMAGES TO MECCA [oiiap. xxv

feelings 'were in entire sympathy with the Queen’s
request, and he would see that all cause of complaint
should be removed and the Indian pilgrims afforded
proper care and protection.”

While thanking his Majesty for these assurances
Sir Nicholas said it would be a still greater satisfaction
to his gracious Sovereign if he could report the
particular measures which his Imperial Majesty pro-
posed to take for this object. The Sultan replied
that he would without delay appoint a Commission to
enquire and report upon the condition and treatment
of the Indian pilgrims. He would meanwhile give
orders to afford Indian pilgrims all proper facilities and
protection against illegal impositions of any kind.
He would also let it be known that these orders were
given in consequence of the direct representations of
the Queen Empress, for whose person he had the
highest veneration.

Sir Nicholas considers that the satisfactory assur-
ances he was authorised to convey to the Queen are
entirely due to the Sultan’s deep respect and regard
for her Majesty, and to his sense of obligation for the
invariable kindness shown by the Queen towards her
Majesty’s Mussulman subjects. The occasion was
cer'tainly otherwise not a favourable one for preferring
a request to the Sultan, as Sh Nicholas had just before
felt bound to refuse to recommend to favourable con-
sideration his Majesty’s personal request to be allowed
to retain Turkish garrisons in some of the fortified
places on the Cretan Coast.

Extract from the Queen's J ournal.

Balmoral, Oct 1898. — Saw Lord G. Hamilton

after breakfast. He is leaving to-morrow early for a
Cabinet, which is to discuss the difficulty respecting
Fashoda, which is in fact now a point d'honneur with
the French. He said he would tell Lord Salisbury
what I bad already written, viz. that not a stone
should be left unturned to prevent war, for I felt what
an awful responsibility to God and man it would be

1898] QUEEN’S ANXIETY ABOUT EASHODA 299

were we to go to war, and what a sacrifice of thousands
of lives 1

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,
[Cypher Telegram.]

25th Oct. 1898. — Humble duty. Following from
Sir E, Monson No. 185 : “ Secret and most confi-

dential. Your telegram last night secret.

“ I am informed, upon authority which I consider
quite trustworthy, that the advice given by Count
Mouravieff to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and
taken down in writing by him to be submitted to the
President and Prime Minister was almost textually
as follows ;

“‘Avoid furnishing a pretext to England for
attacking you now. At a later date Russia will
find an opportunity of opening the whole Egyptian
question.’

“ I do not believe Russia’s support was either
contingently promised or categorically refused in the
present emergency.”

27th Oct. — Lord Salisbury with his humble duty
respectfully submits that he has received your
Majesty’s message with respect to the Cabinet which
sat to-day.

It was agreed that an affirmative answer should be
sent to the Italian request that we should attend a
conference on the subject of the anarchists. This
decision is in accordance with the view your Majesty
expressed to Lord Salisbury.

With respect to Fashoda, there was a very long dis-
cussion and much difference of opinion. It was at
last agreed that M. de Comcel should be informed that,
so long as the French flag flew at Fashoda, it was
impossible that this Government could enter upon
any territorial discussion. After the flag had been
removed the question of delimitation could be dis-
cussed ; but we could give no agreement with respect
to the nature of the territorial arrangement to which
your Majesty’s Government could consent.

300 M. MABCHAND AT KHARTOUM [chap, xiv

The treaty suggested by Sir H. D. Wolff was then
debated, under which England was to agree to guar-
antee the Balearic and the Canary Islands, in exchange
for certain stipulations as to the territory surrounding
Gibraltar within the range of guns of the modern
type. The Cabinet was unanimous in favour of
adopting the treaty, which has already been recom-
mended by your Majesty.

Lord Lansdowne sees no objection to the Sirdar
receiving the Military G.C.B., and thinks Colonel
Wingate should receive the Military K.C.B., Slatin
should receive the Civil K.C.B.

Lord Salisbury with his humble duty respectfully
acknowledges receipt of your Majesty’s two gracious
letters.

Extract from the Queen^s Journal.

Balmoeal, 28th Oct. 1898. — ^After luncheon saw
Sir E. Lascelles. Talked to him a little about the
state of affairs, as I had also done last night. He said
he did not believe in the report received from Sir E.
Monson, which was quite antagonistic to what he had
heard from other quarters, viz. that the Russians
would give not merely moral but material assistance
to the French against us. Sir Frank told me William
was in fact very fond of England, and anxious to be
on good terms with us, but that he was terribly im-
prudent in his words and actions. The visits to Con-
stantinople and Jerusalem were much to be regretted,
but he could not help hoping good might come out of
evil, and that the Sultan would see he had nothing to
expect from Germany.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

28th Oct. (1898). — Humble duty. Following from
Cairo :

“ Commandant at Omdurman telegraphs that
Marchand has himself arrived at Khartoum in the
Egyptian gunboat which, as reported in my telegram

189SJ MINISTERIAL CRISIS IN FRANCE 301

No. 279, was sent to Fashoda. He will probably leave
for Cairo to-morrow.

“ Captain Germain of the Marine Artillery has
been left in charge at Fashoda. . . .”

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.']

28th Oct. 1898. — This news from Sir E. Monson
about Russia’s support of France in the event of war
with us is most contradictory, and we ought at once to
ascertain why Mr. Milbanke reported the very reverse
of what Sir E. Monson now telegraphs. Ought we not
to ask the Russians if such reports are true, and further
get assurance of support and understanding with the
other Powers, Italy, Germany, and Austria ? But
surely the French will not let it come to that. Trust
you got both my letters.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,
[Cypher Telegram.]

28th Oct. (1898). — Humble duty. Following from
Sir E, Monson No. 191 :

“ Ministerial crisis. Minister for Foreign Affairs
says he expects that the formation of a new Cabinet
will be completed by Saturday evening, as the Presi-
dent of the Republic sent to-day for the man who will
be charged to undertake it, and who will probably
succeed in the task.

“ Most confidential . — ^He added that if your
Majesty’s Government decided to concede in principle
the access to the Nile without exacting as a preliminary
the evacuation of Fashoda, he will be able to remain
himself as Minister for Foreign Affairs in any Cabinet
that is likely to be formed. The consequence of a
refusal would be such that it would be impossible to
continue in office. He is therefore awaiting anxiously
for the issue of your Lordship’s interview with the
French Ambassador this afternoon. He was very
apprehensive of a rejection of his proposals.”

302

DEATH OF LADY CROMER [ciiaf. xiv

Lord Cromer to Queen Victoria.

Cairo, ^Sth Oct. 1898, — ^Lord Cromer, with his
humble duty to your Majesty, submits that he cannot
adequately express in words his sense of your Majesty’s
great kindness during the period of anxiety and
sorrow through which he has recently passed.^ Lord
Cromer has begged his niece Susan, to whom your
Majesty has been so kind, to express to your Majesty
the depth of his feeling on this subject.

Although Lord Cromer is now deprived of the
advice and assistance of her who, for more than
twenty-two' years, has been his chief support in life,
he hopes still to devote whatever years of health
and strength may remain to him to the service of the
Sovereign whose gracious encouragement has never
failed him during the many and great difficulties which
he has had to encounter in the course of his Egyptian
career. It was, in fact, one of the dying wishes of
Lord Cromer’s beloved "wife that he should not
abandon his work in Egypt. Lord Cromer’s earnest
hope is that he may be able to fulfil that wish in a
manner which will continue to merit your Majesty’s
gracious approval.

Mr. Morley to Sir Arthur Bigge.

67 Elm Pabk Gardens, 28tli October 1898.

Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, — I will beg you to be so
good as to express to the Queen the deep gratitude
with which I have received her Majesty’s gracious
words about the biography of Mr. Gladstone, and to
convey to her Majesty the assurance that it will be
my steadfast endeavour, while doing justice to my
subject, to do no less than justice to all others.

I beheve that I may have to touch matters and to
refer to documents, as to which it would be indispen-
sable that I should obtain her Majesty’s sanction. In

1 Lady Cromer died on leth October. Three years later, Lord
Cromer married, as his second wife. Lady Katherine G. L. Thynne,
daughter of the 4th Marquis of Bath. He was created a Viscount on
25th January 1809, and an Earl in 1001.

THE FASHODA NEGOTIATIONS

803

1898]

this case it is needless for me to say how sincerely
anxious I should be to be allowed to ascertain her
Majesty’s wishes and feelings, and to pay them all
possible deference. Yours very faithfully, John
Morley.

[Cop?/.] Sir Arthur Bigge to Mr. Morley.

Balmohal, 31si October 1898.

Dear Mr. Morley, — ^The Queen wishes me to
thank you very much for all you say in your letter to
me of the 28th inst.

I am to tell you that if you will be good enough to
refer to the Queen, H.M. will be glad to render you
such assistance as is in her power with regard to
documents and other matters which may bear upon
your biography of Mr. Gladstone. Yours very truly,
A. B.

The Marquis of Salisbury to the Queen.
[Cypher Telegrams.]

29th Oct. 1898. — ^Humble duty. France. If we
ask Russia she would give us such an answer as would
induce us to give way ; that is to say, she would
frighten us as much as possible. This would be quite
consistent with her holding exactly opposite language
to the French ; for a war now would be inconvenient
to her. She wishes to stop it ; but whether it is
stopped by France yielding or England yielding she
does not care.

Sir E. Monson does not tell us where he gets his
information, probably he cannot. But I suspect it is
somebody who has been put in his way by Russia or
France. Italy must go with us. Germany will pro-
bably try to levy blaclonail. . . .

[Same day.] — Humble duty. Following from
Paris No. 193 :

“Marchand’s return. Most confidential.

“ The Minister for Foreign Affairs is furious that
Marchand should have quitted his post without orders.
He will find, on arriving at Cairo, orders to return at once

804 M. DELCASSE’S DIFFICULTIES [chap, xiv

to Fashoda. Captain Baratier starts to-niglrt for Cairo
with instructions for his Chief. Minister for Foreign
Affairs begged that this should be considered not only
a confidential but also a private communication.”

OcL — Humble duty. Following from Paris
No. 194:

“ Secret. — ^Mons. Delcasse says that the new
Government will not be formed before Monday. He
has not yet given his consent to continue in office,
chiefly on account of the uncertainty of its being
found possible by your Lordship to spare France the
humiliation of evacuating Fashoda and withdrawing
from the Nile without her having received previously
a promise that the Government will negotiate. We
again argued the question. I tried to convince him
that there would be no hrunfliation in withdrawing an
expedition to which he had never explicitly given an
official character, and which had never been ordered
to the Nile by the French Government. He said he
might have taken this line, had we not made the
original statement as to our indisputable and exclusive
rights. His position is that he must either accept a
humiliation or go to war. His patriotism rejects the
one solution ; his conviction of the calamitous con-
sequences to the two countries and the whole of
Europe rejects the other.

“ He wishes this conversation to be considered
unofficial,”

Mr. Richmond Ritchie to Sir Arthur Bigge.

India Oitice, 29th October 1898.

Deae Bigge, — Lord George Hamilton tells me
that, when he was at Balmoral, he submitted to the
Queen his suggestions as to the best means of comply-
ing with her Majesty’s wishes for fuUer information on
Indian subjects, as expressed in your letter to me of
the 26th August last.i- He is now back here, and hav-
ing made the necessary enquiries, has issued instruc-
tions that copies of all telegrams of importance from
^ See above, p. 282.

306

1898] QUEEN’S ANXIETY ABOUT FRANCE

India and of despatches relating to subjects in which
her Majesty takes special interest, should be sent to her
Secretaries,

Lord George Hamilton has also telegraphed to the
Viceroy, asking that special reports may be sent for
her Majesty’s information of subjects affecting Native
princes or other distinguished personages, even though
they may fall outside the lines of the ordinary official
correspondence.

As to the Council Minutes, Lord George Hamilton
proposes to abolish the present system under which
the formal record of all the business transacted by
the Secretary of State in Council is submitted weekly,
as the despatches sent would cover the questions in
which the Queen was interested.

Lord George Hamilton understands that these
arrangements will meet the Queen’s wishes.^ I am,
yours very truly, Richmond Ritchie.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, BQih Oct. 1898. — number of cyphers
kept coming in, Mr, Bryce (staying at Abergeldie),
who dined, was as usual most agreeable, and spoke
very Idndly about the great feeling for me in America,
which had manifested itself very much at the time of
the Jubilee and since. He thought it had much to do
with the improved relations existing between the two
countries.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury,
[Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 30th Oct. 1898. — I feel very
anxious about the state of affairs, and think a war for
so miserable and small an object is what I could hardly
bring myself to consent to. We have had so many
losses already on the Indian frontier, and to think of
sacrificing any more is too horrible and too wrong.

We must try and save France from humiliation.
Would it be safe to promise commercial access to the

' The Queen approved these arrangements.

S 06 FURTHER NEGOTIATIONS [chap, xiv

Nile and delimitation of that region suggested in
Sirdar’s letter of 8th October to Lord Cromer on con*
dition of French withdrawal from Fashoda ?

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Edmund Monson.^
[Cypher Telegram.]

SOth Oct. 1898. — The following is an unofficial
record of my conversation with the French Ambassa-
dor on the 27th :

“ I intimated to him that, so long as M. Marchand
floated the French flag at Fashoda, any discussion
between the English and French Governments upon
frontier questions in that region was impossible, for if
we took part in them, we should be admitting the
legality of Marchand’s position.

“ M. de Courcel, with great energy and at some
length, repudiated the doctrine that Marchand’s posi-
tion was illegal. He said, however, that reports
received by him seemed to H.E. to show that Fashoda
could never furnish the outlet on the Nile which
France sought to obtain, and that therefore it was of no
use to her. He thought it therefore not improbable
that Marchand would receive orders to retire.

“ I said I was glad to receive this intimation, though
it was accompanied by claims of right which it was
quite out of my power to admit. It was not the
existence of a deep difference of opinion upon the
question of right which was inconsistent with negotia-
tion ; but the presence of a French flag upon ground
to which, in our belief, France had no title.

“ If Marchand should receive the orders M. de
Courcel has indicated, the obstacle to a discussion of
the frontier would be removed, and whatever was at
present abnormal in the diplomatic relation between
the two countries would cease. It would be open to
the French Government to raise a discussion upon the
frontier in those regions, and their representations
would be considered by H.M.’s Government in the
same spirit which they would bring to the considera-

1 Submitted by Lord Salisbury to the Queen.

SOf

1898] THE QUEEN AND LOKD KITCHENER

tion of frontier questions which might arise between
England and any other nation in any part of the world.
That discussion must, however, necessarily be pro-
tracted, for it must turn in some degree on historical
and geographical information which we didn’t fully
possess. We would gladly take measures to complete
it, and in doing so we should count on the co-operation
of officers in French territory. But until we had re-
ceived and considered it, we could not give or imply
any kind of pledge as to the conelusion to which we
should be willing to come.”

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.’]

SOth Oct. 1898 — ^Humble duty. Following sent to
Lord Cromer :

“ Secret. — Sirdar is strongly impressed with the
inexpediency of letting either Marchand or Baratier go
back to Fashoda. I concur with him in urging that
the gunboat now at Khartoum should start at once
without delay ; so that if you are asked to send
these two officers back you may reply with truth that
there is not likely to be any gunboat starting from
Khartoum for some time.

“ Mons. Delcasse is very angry with Marchand, and
has telegraphed to him to return immediately. He is
also sending Baratier back.”

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Balmokal, 3l5if Oct. 1898. — Heard with great
regret that Lady Martin ^ died this morning, having
been very ill for some time. It wiU be a dreadful
blow to poor Sir Theodore.

Directly after luncheon saw the Sirdar, Lord
Kitchener, who only arrived in London a few days ago.
He looked very well and bronzed, but had caught a
bad cold. He remained a short while, and of course I
spoke to him of all that had passed and how well

1 She was Miss Helena Faucit, the actress, before her marriage to
Sir Theodore Martin.

TTT — 21

m B'RENCH TO EVACUATE FASIIODA [ciiap. xiv

everything had gone oh. He said he thought the
Khahfa would be caught or killed. We had 8,000
Dervish prisoners at Khartoum and about the same
number of wounded, who were quite tractable. The
former would be given land to cultivate. Lord
Kitchener does not apprehend any trouble with the
Abyssinians, who are friendly. Five hundred, who had
been prisoners at Omdurman, had been liberated and
sent back. He did not think there would be any
war with France, and trusts matters may be able
to be arranged. Marchand is not to return. Ismay
S[outhampton], Marie M[allet], Aline Majendie, Lord
Kitchener, Mr. Balfour, Sir A. Bigge, and Fritz
P[onsonby] dined. Lord Kitchener sat next to me,
and was very agreeable, full of information, and Mr.
Balfour also made himself very pleasant.

Uh Nov . — ^Received the following cypher from
Lord Salisbury : “ Sir B. Monson telegraphs that
after the Cabinet Council this morning, orders were
sent to French Ambassador to inform me that
Fashoda would be evacuated with the least possible
delay. Marchand and Baratier have been instructed
to return to Fashoda to carry out this decision.
M. Delcasse has expressed his hope that we will give
them every facility to accomplish this. The mission
has ceased to have any pohtical character, and must
henceforth be considered as a simple, inoffensive
troop, armed only in self-defence against native
attack. M. Delcasse assm’es Sir E, Monson that he
will lose no time in settling the route to be taken by
the mission, and has almost decided upon an eastern
one, via Jehute and Obok.”

This news is a great relief, but it is very strange
why this sudden change has taken place. The whole
matter might have been settled long ago.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Mh Nov. (1898). — ^Humble duty. Following from
Sir B. Monson ‘>01 ;

309

1898] CREDIT DUE TO LORD SALISBURY

“ M. Delcasse stated to me this afternoon that it
had cost him much to remain in office, and that so
strong an appeal had been made to him that, at this
crisis, he had not liked to shirk the responsibility of
defending the decision of the Government which he
expects to have to do in the Chamber on Monday next.

“I did not say anything more than that [I] re-
joiced at the decision arrived at, and at his having
made up his mind to remain in the Cabinet.”

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
{Cypher Telegram.]

Balmoral Castle, 5th Nov. 1898. — It is an im-
mense relief to have got over this very strained rela-
tion between France and England, and I am sure it
is owing to your patience and firmness.

It will be important I think to help the French as
much as is proper and dignified out of the foolish and
horrible impasse they had got into.

Ought not some reward if possible be given to Lord
Cromer ? The Sirdar ought to get the G.C.B., and I
should like to give it him myself before he leaves
England.

I am glad to see Cretan affairs are in a fair way to
[be] settled.

{Telegram^ Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

5th Nov. 1898. — ^Lord Kitchener presents his
humble duty to your Majesty, and begs to express his
profound thanks for your Majesty’s gracious telegram.
He is greatly honoured at your Majesty’s approval of
his speech, and was much gratified at the splendid
reception given him in the City. He thanks her
Majesty for her gracious enquiries, and begs to say that
his cold is very much better.

Mr. Harrington to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Addis Ababa, 5th November 1898.

My Lord, — ^I have the honour to report for your
Lordship’s information that her Majesty the Queen’s

810 KING MENELEK AND QUEEN’S VOICE [chap, xiv

phonograph message was delivered to his Majesty-
King Menelek at Akaki on Sunday afternoon, the 30th
October.

Previous to delivering the message the box con-
taining the cylinder was opened in presence of M. Ilg
and Captain Ciccadicola, the Italian Resident. Lord
Denbigh’s certificate, that the enclosed cylinder was
the one her Majesty Queen Victoria had spoken the
niessage on, and his certified copy of the message
spoken, both of which certificates were packed with
the cylinder, were handed over to M. Ilg for delivery
to the King. The cylinder was then tried a few times
so as to get the correct tone. The message was re-
ceived with ceremony by' the King, and after it was
delivered, an artillery salute was fired, the King
standing to show his respect for the honour paid him.

The King heard the message several times, and
expressed his thanks for the honour paid him by her
Majesty, more especially because, having tried speaking
into a phonograph himself, he thoroughly realised the
trouble that her Majesty must have taken in sending
the message. He said that, hearing her Majesty’s
voice, he felt as if they were face to face, and he said
that, should he ever go to Europe, his first business
would be to see her Majesty in person.

I then left the phonograph to allow his Majesty to
have the message repeated to Queen Taitou. M. Ilg
informed me that Queen Taitou recognised her own
name in the message, and said, “ She says my name.”
Queen Taitou asked if she could have a life of the
Queen. I was also informed that the King took the
opportunity of again listening to her Majesty’s message
several times, and expressed his surprise that her
Majesty’s voice at her age should be so firm and
distinct.

The cylinder was then returned to me and im-
mediately broken into pieces as promised. Owing to
the fact that the disc of the recording stylus was
unfortunately broken en route, I was unable to accept
King Menelek’s return message for her Majesty, but

1898] GERMAN EMPEROR AT MALTA 311

lie has promised to speak a message as soon as I
receive a new recorder, which has been written for.

There is no doubt in my mind that the King has
thoroughly appreciated the honour paid him by her
Majesty. I have, &c., J. L. Harrington.

[Telegram,] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Beyrout, 5th Nov. 1898. — ^We went to see your
new English Church at Jerusalem, which is very pretty,
and which is very prettily situated. William.

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoral, 9th Nov. 1898. — ^Dear Bertie’s birthday.
We must be very thankful that he recovered so well
from that dreadful accident.

Windsor Castle, 14dh Nov. — ^M. de Staal spoke
very sensibly, as he always does ; lamented over the
imprudence of the French, and said Lord Salisbury had
been placed in such a difficult position, owing to the
extraordinary feeling of unanimity in tliis country on
the Fashoda affair, which had prevented his giving
[way] at all, to facilitate matters.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Malta, 16th Nov. 1898. — Our stay for coaling
purposes in the quaint and picturesque harbour of
Valetta in Malta has given me the pleasing opportunity
of visiting some of the fine ships of the magnificent
squadron assembled under the flag of Sir J. Hopkins.
The C(Bsar is the most fighting ship I ever set my foot
on. The spacious decks and lofty headroom, com-
bined with airiness and light, leave no doubt that she
must be excellent accommodation for her fine crew.
No need to add that she, as well as the flagship and the
rest I had the pleasure of visiting, were beautifully
kept, and worthy of the renown the Mediterranean
Squadron enjoys in this respect. I was glad to be
able to consort with such able, capable, and charming
officers, as I met in the Captains of your fine ships.
Beg to thank for all kindness and help shown to my
ship dming our stay here. William.

832

BRITAIN, RUSSIA, AND GERMANY [chap, xit

Sir Charles Scott ^ to the Marquis of Salisbury .
\Cypher Telegram.] Private and Secret.

16th Nov. 1898. — would earnestly beg that all
reports, however apparently well authenticated, of any
encouragement given by Russia to France or hopes held
out of Russian assistance in raising general question of
Egypt may be received with utmost caution.

I have best grounds for believing that any sueh
idea can only have arisen from serious misunder-
standing or misinterpretation of views of Emperor
and of Russian Government, who have neither the
desire nor intention to raise difficulties for England,
but on the contrary wish to give some proof of the
sincerity of their desire for a friendly and permanent
understanding with us on all questions.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Q.ueen Victoria.

17th Nov. 1898. — . . . As to the Emperor of
Germany, Lord Salisbury is of opinion that, if he paid
a visit to your Majesty, it would certainly do good.
Matters have much changed during the last twelve
months, and he has shown himself disposed to be
friendly to this country. The attitude of France
makes it desirable that the world should believe in
an understanding between Germany and England. If
therefore the German Emperor gives any intimation
of a desire to be invited. Lord Salisbury would re-
spectfully submit that your Majesty should comply
with his wish.

Sir Coleridge Grove ^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War Office, \Sth November 1898.

My deae Bigge, — I notice that in your letter
about the Bandmasters you speak of the Queen’s
wish that “ Commissions ” should be given to the
three named.® I presume that this means “ Honorary
Commissions ” ? In the case of 2nd Lieut. Dan.

* British Ambassador to Russia.

“ Military Secretary at the War Office.

^ See above, p. 292, and below, pp. 317 and 838.

1898] DUKE OF CONNAUGHT IN PARIS 813

Godfrey, he was given an honorary 2nd Lieutenancy,
and Lord Wolseley imagines that the Queen would
desire that the same course should be followed with
regard to the other three, but he wishes me to write
and find out clearly before any action is taken.
Yours sincerely, Colehidge Geove.

Endorsed by Queen Victoria :

20th Nov. 1898. — Yes. Honorary Lts.

The Duke of Connaught to Queen Victoria.
\Copy.'\ lExtract.l

SOth Nov. 1898. — . . . My visit to the President went
off very well, and he was most civil ; he also returned
my visit. He asked me whether you were going to
Nice, and I told him you had not made your plans yet.
Louischen and I dined with General de Negrier one
night, and we went to the play together afterwards.
He is most anxious to pay his respects to you, and to
thank you for the honour you did him by giving him
the Victorian Order in your name,

I found everyone everywhere most civil in Paris. I
am told that the shopkeepers won’t hear of a war with
us. I think the French are calming down, and there
is a great deal more feehng shown about the Dreyfus
case than that of Fashoda. Abthub.

Sir Edmund Monson to Queen Victoria.

Paris, SOth Nov. 1898. — . , . Your Majesty is
doubtless aware that great interest is taken in France
in the decision which your Majesty may eventually
take in regard to visiting Cimiez ; and that there is
much anxiety lest circumstances should cause your
Majesty to alter the intention to which it is understood
that you have arrived. Whatever may be the con-
dition of the international relations between England
and France, the respect entertained for your Majesty
throughout this country, and the appreciation of your
Majesty’s yearly visits to the French coast of the
Mediterranean, remain unchanged, , . ,

814

SIR A. MILNER AT WINDSOR [chap, xiv

Extracts from the Queen'’ s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 1st Dec. 1898. — ^Dined in the
"big dining-room. Lenchen, Christian, Thora, Frank
Teck, Cecilia I)[o'vvne], Sir Edward and Lady E. Malet,
Count Seckendorff, Lord Edward Cecil, Mr. and Lady
Georgina Buchanan, Countess Perponcher, Victor
Churchill, Lord Tullibardine, Sir Alfred Milner,
Ethel Cadogan, Bessie Bulteel, Lord E. Clinton, and
Sir John McNeill dined. Sir Alfred Milner, who is at
the Cape, ha.s only come to England for six weeks,
lie says things are toku'ably quiet and improving, but
that the Boers were not likely to be any better.

3rd Dec , — At 11 .20 left with Beatrice and Thora
for Netley. Lord Kitchener joined us at the station.
Lunched in the train, and drove as before to the
hospital, which we reached at a quarter to two. I
was received as usual by the authorities.

Surgeon-General Nash and Miss Norman, the Lady
Superintendent, accompanied me into the various
wards and corridors, along which I was rolled. All
the invalids, who were able to stand, were drawn up in
these corridors. I visited many wards, seeing some
sick who had been there last time. A great many
came from India yesterday, and there were still some
from the Indian frontier. Saw a number of sick and
wounded from the Soudan, amongst them Sergeant
Freeman, of the 21st Lancers, who lost the left side of
his nose at Omdurman, and Private Logan, of the
Seaforth Highlanders, shot in the left hip, also at
Omdurman. Tlie men seemed so delighted to see
Lord Kitchener, and several had pictures of him stuck
up over their beds. There were several men who had
been badly injured during the manoeuvres, including an
officer in the Array Service Corps, Lieutenant Cannot,
who Avas lying on an ambulance stretcher covered with
a quilt I had worked. I gave the Distinguished Con-
duct Medal to Staff-Sergeant Benson and Private
Benson, of the Army Medical Corps, for their services
in the Soudan, the latter having been wounded in the

815

1898] THE QUEEN AT NETLEY

head. Before leaving I was shown the Rontgen Ray-
apparatus by Dr. Stevenson. Got back to Windsor
at 5.30, and had our tea with Vicky. Thora -went
straight back to Cumberland Lodge.

Saw Lord Kitchener after tea, to take leave of him,
as he is returning to Egypt on the 7th. Gave him a
cigarette case with my monogram, -with which he
seemed much pleased. Said a few words about
Egypt and about the French, who are still inclined to
give a little trouble by trying to intrigue with some
of the tribes, but he did not think there was any reason
to apprehend anything serious. What he feared,
however, was any trouble with the Abyssinians, and
he thought we ought to have more information, and
that a second person should be sent out to Colonel
Harrington. Lord Kitchener has already got £60,000
for the College at Khartoum.

The Earl of Minto to Queen Victoria.

Go-raKNMENT House, Ottawa, ith December 1898.

Madam, — I think your Majesty might like to
receive a letter stamped with the new Canadian
Imperial stamp. ^ The Postmaster- General here has
sent them to me privately, and as they are not to be
issued for sale before next Tuesday, the post office has
received special orders to accept these stamps sent to
me, so that the stamp your Majesty receives on this
letter -will be the first issue to cross the Atlantic.
Your Majesty is no doubt aware that the Canadian
Imperial penny postage does not come into force till
Xmas ; it is therefore necessary to affix three stamps,
whereas after Xmas one will be sufficient. I had the
honour, a few days ago, of striking the first impression.
I hope your Majesty [will] approve it ; the Imperial
idea the map is intended to convey is, I venture to
think, a fine one.

I was rather amused by the remark of an American
Senator who called here the other day when I asked
him if he admired the stamp, of which I had some

‘ It apparently bore a map of the -world -with the Empire in red.

316 THE QUEEN AND M. CAMBON [chap, xiv

proof copies. “ Very pretty,” he said ; “ but a grea,t
deal too much red about it ! ” The Post Office authori-
ties here tell me they were sorely tempted to paint
Egypt red too, but thought it better not ! . . . I beg
to remain, your Majesty’s humble and obedient
servant, Minto.

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, Qth Dec. 1898. — ^After tea [saw]
I^ord and Lady Curzon.i who seem most anxious to
fill their post well and wisely. Then I received the
Baron dc Courccl, who presented his letter of recall,
and thanked me for all my kindness, after which I had
some conversation with Lord Salisbury, who spoke of
M. de Courcel, and how unhappy he was about the
state of France, and the end of his mission being un-
successful. Ismay Southampton, who has succeeded
Edith Lytton, Countess Perponcher, M. de Courcel,
Lord Salisbury, Lord and Lady Curzon, Lord Claren-
don, Sir William Colville, Count Seckendorff, and Sir
J. McNeill dined. M. de Courcel sat on my left. He
was, as always, most amiable and civil. I talked of
the horrible book published by a Herr von Busch, who
was Secretary to Bismarck, noting down all the
disloyal and atrocious things against Fritz and Vicky,
and the old Emperor and Empress Augusta. He said,
“ C’est horrible,” but that he had himself heard Bis-
marck say some of the things.

Dec. — ^Received the new French Ambassador,
M. Cambon, who comes from Constantinople. After-
w'ards saw Lord Salisbury for some time. We spoke
of the new French Ambassador, of the feeling of the
French towards England ; he fears they may still
give much trouble in some ways, but thinks I can
perfectly well go to Cimiez, and that my putting off
going might create a panic. Ismay S., M. Cambon,
Lady de Ilamsey, Lord Salisbury, Nelly Brett and
her husband, Lord Clarendon, Sir Wm. Colville,

* Mr. George Curzon, Viceroy Designate, had been created an Irish
peer, so that there might be no bar, on his return from India, to his
sitting in the House of Commons again.

317

1898] DEATH OF SIR W. JENNER

and Colonel Clark dined with us five, which in-
cluded Lenchen, Thora, and Christie. M. Camhon
sat next to me, and is very agreeable and well in-
formed. He told me a great deal about Constanti-
nople, and the terrible state of affairs they had to
witness there at one time, without being aWe to do
anything. He also spoke of Spain, where he had been
some time, and of the great difficulties the poor Queen
Regent has.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Wab Office, 15 th December 1898.

My dear Bigge, — I have just approved the grant
of honorary commissions to Bandmasters C, Godfrey,
of the Royal Horse Guards, and L. Zavertal, of the
Royal Artillery.

The question of a commission for Mr. Miller of the
Royal Marines rests as you know with the Admiralty.

The Commander-in-Chief will submit the names in
due course to her Majesty. I am, my dear Bigge,
yours sincerely, Lansdowne.

Extract from the Queen^s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 11th Dec. 1898 . — ^Much grieved
to hear that good old Sir William Jenner, who had been
for so many years (from ’61 to ’ 93 ) my physician, had
died this afternoon. He had been a most devoted
and faithful servant of mine, a most able doctor, and a
truly kind friend, to whom I could always speak
frankly and confidentially. I have greatly missed him
during the last five years, when he could no longer
come to see me. He had been with me during the
saddest moments of my life, having been most kind
and attentive at this most terrible time, now thirty-
seven years ago ; again at Sandringham, during
Bertie’s most alarming illness in ’ 71 , and when dear
Leopold was so dreadfully ill on two occasions and Sir
William, under Providence, really saved his life. On
many other trying and sad occasions he showed much
kindness, and was always full of sympathy, though

318 QUEEN AND PCE. GEORGE OE GREECE [cha1>. xiv

naturally of rather an irascible temper. He gave up
travelling with me after the year *79, never going any
more either abroad or to Scotland. It is another link
with the past gone, and I feel it very much.

Qiieen Victoria to Prince George of Greece.
\Co])y,\ WiNDSOu Casti.e, lliA December 1898.

My dkak Geouge, — I wish to express to you my
satisfaction at your ixomination to the very important
office of High Commissioner of Crete, and my earnest
good wishes for your success in this difficult position.
If you act with perfect impartiality towards the
Christians and Mohammedans, you will be able in time
to restore peace and prosperity to that unhappy
island, wdiich will be a reward for all the difficulties
you ivill have to encounter.

You will have felt your dear Amama’s ^ death very
much, for I heard how devoted you were to her. Be-
lieve me, always your affectionate aunt, Victoria R. I.

Prince George of Greece to Queen Victoria.

Athens, ICih December 1898.

ALvdan, — M ay your Majesty allow me to thank
you most sincerely for the kind wishes you expressed
in the letter you have honoured me with ?

I am quite aw'are of the difficulties which my new
office as High Commissioner of Crete encounters, but
I hope to overcome them all, by following your
Majesty’s good advices of acting in a perfect impartial
manner towards the Christians and Mohammedans, and
to secure thus the island’s and the population’s pros-
perity.

IMay I also express my deepest and most heartfelt
thanks to your Majesty for your sympathy on behalf
of our dear Amaraa’s death ?

In thanking your Majesty once more for your
letter, which I always shall cherish and keep as an

■ Giandmama — the Queen of nenm-fi-.

1898] WAR OFFICE AND HOSPITALS 319

historical document, I remain, your Majesty’s most
obedient servant, GeorgeP

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Osborne, IQi/z. Dec. 1898. — The Queen thanks Lord
Salisbury for his letter respecting the Hospital Ship.

She cannot help sa 3 dng that the answer is not
satisfactory, and that it only shows what a state of
confusion and want of proper efficiency the War
Department is in. The Queen cannot for a moment
allow any blame to rest on that very distinguished
Medical Officer, Surgeon-General Taylor, who only
answered the Queen’s questions, which she maintains
she has a right to ask ; in fact, that it is her duty to try
and find out the truth. The Queen will not pursue the
painful subject farther now, but much will have to be
done by-and-by, and above all to clear up the position
of the Commander-in-Chief and Secretary for War,
who seems to usurp all authority — which never existed
or she thinks never was intended. Ever since the
Office of Secretary for War was created, in a great
hurry in ’54, it has never been satisfactory, and there
have been and are endless quibbles and equivocation.

Surgeon-General Taylor to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Private. Jk, Aemy and Navy Club, St. James’s Street.

Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, — I did not mean to let
you hear anything about my very bad quarter of an hour
with the Secretary of State, and I am sorry that you
should have heard of it. I cannot think how you did.

I am distressed too that her Majesty should have
been told anything about it, for really I did not mind
the expressed displeasure, so long as the truth of my
statement to the Queen was not questioned. That
was not possible.

' In a private letter, apparently to the Duke of York, Prince
George wrote : “ 1 can’t tell you how honoured I felt, and bow toiiclied
I really was, by receiving a letter written by [the Queen’s] own hand.
She has always been remarkably kind to me, but this last mark of
kindness has touched me beyond words.”

320

THE QUEEN SET UPON REFORM [chap, xiv

I wonder whether the whole file of papers was
sent for your perusal to the Queen !

Please do not think anything more about the
matter. I do not suppose the Secretary of State
will stop my promotion or advancement because I
told the truth. Yours very truly, W. Taylor.

Viscount Cromer to the Marquis of Salisbury}
{Cypher Telegram.]

Cairo, 20th Dec. 1898,— State of health of the
troops on the Blue Nile, particularly of the English
Officers, is causing much anxiety. Could you urge the
War Office to accelerate departure of three medical
officers for whom the Sirdar has already applied ?

{Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

Osborne, 21st Dec. 1898. — ^The Queen sends this
telegram to show to Lord Salisbury how neglectful
they are in the War Office. The Queen knows that the
feeling is strong on the subject ; and she thinks that
Lord Lansdowne is not aware of the delay and
grievances there are, as he is far too anxious to do
what is right if he knew.

The Queen is determined to pass over nothing, but
to bring all the shortcomings direct to the Prime
Minister officially, when the health, nay the lives, of
her soldiers are in danger.

Prince George of Greece to Queen Victoria.
{Telegram.]

Canea, 2l5f Dec. 1898, — ^Have been received in
the most cordial manner, population cheered your
Majesty, and expressed thanks for everything your
Majesty has done for Crete. Georgie.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

23rd Dec. 1898. — ^Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully acknowledges your Majesty’s two
letters referring to the War Office. He has sent to

t Tills apparently is the telegram to -which the Queen calls Lord
Salisbury’s special attention in the following letter.

1898] LORD SALISBURY ON WAR OFFICE 321

the War Office to press them with respect to Lord
Cromer’s demand for more medical men.

Lord Salisbury is very far indeed from disputing
generally the justice of your Majesty’s complaints
against the War Office. The difficulty is to find where
the neglect or faulty action lies. He remembers that
similar complaints were, very justly he believes, made
against the War Office under the administration of
Mr. Stanhope, of Colonel Stanley, of Mr. Hardy. It
would seem probable therefore that there is some
special difficulty in the subject, or some special defect
in the machinery ; and that the fault cannot in the
main be charged to individual Secretaries of State.
Lord Salisbury will do all he can to remedy these
defects, though he is not sanguine of succeeding where
so many men have failed. It is evident that the
subject-matter is one of colossal difficulty ; for the
Americans in Cuba and the French in Madagascar have
failed far more conspicuously in making due provision
for the health and comfort of the soldiers on active
service than can be charged to the organisers and
leaders of the Egyptian operations. Lord Lansdowne
is at present in county Kerry for Christmas ; but
when he comes back Lord Sahsbury wiU speak to him
again upon the subject.

Sir Frank Lascelles to Queen Victoria.

Berlin, 2Uli December 1898. — Sir Frank Lascelles
presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and has the
honour to report that on the 19th instant, he had an
opportunity, afforded to him by an invitation to dine
with the Emperor and Empress on that day, to carry
out the commands conveyed in your Majesty’s gracious
letter of the 7th instant.

Sir Frank informed the Emperor that he had been
commanded by your Majesty to inform him that your
Majesty hoped to see him in the course of the year,
but not upon the occasion of your Majesty’s birthday.
His Majesty replied that he had already received this
intimation from the Empress Frederick. He added

322 OVERTURES BY GERMAN EMPEROR [chap, xiv

that he was looking forward with the greatest eagerness
to seeing your Majesty, that he had been greatly
touched by your Majesty’s gracious intention to have
invited him to Wind.sor, if he had touched at an
English port on his return from the East ; and, if he
had known in time, he would certainly, at any risk of
inconvenience, have carried out his original intention.

Ilis Majesty had recently heard with great satis-
faction that the; Prince of Wales had referred to him
in friendly terms, and his Majesty also threw out a
suggestion that their Royal Highnesses the Duke and
Duchess <jf York would be welcome if they thought of
paying a visit to Berlin.

The Emperor also told Sir Frank that he proposed,
in commemoration of your Majesty’s eightieth birth-
day, to offer a gold cup for a yacht race at Kiel, for
which he hoperl that many English yachts would
compete.

Sir Frank will not trouble your Majesty with an
account of the political conversation with which the
Emperor honoured him on this occasion, and of which
he has attempted to give a full report in his official
correspondence with Lord Salisbury. He would,
however, venture to express the hope that the
friendly sentiments with which his Majesty is inspired
towards your Majesty and England may be satisfac-
tory to your Majesty and may long continue. ' It
was a special gratification to Sir Frank to hear the
terms of devoted admiration in which the Emperor,
as always in his conversations with him, referred to
your Majesty.

Sir Frank has the honour to subscribe himself
your Majesty's most loyal and faithful subject and
servant, IhiAXK C. Lascelles.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

25thDec. 1898. — LordSalisbury told Count Hatzfeldt
that H.M. Government had informed Portugal that
we should view with extreme aversion any idea of
placing the Azore.s under the power or influence of any

828

1898] Ills XMAS LETTER TO THE QUEEN

nation except Portugal. This protest, Lord Salisbury
[said], was made because he suspected the possibility
of France obtaining an undue position in those islands.

Count Hatzfeldt received this information in a
disconcerted manner, and did not recover his equan-
imity for some time ; but Lord Salisbury cannot sug-
gest what caused this change of manner.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Potsdam, ZOth December 1898.

Most Beloved Grandmama, — ^Allow me by these
lines to convey to your feet my best thanks for the
pretty flower -pot which graced my Xmas table, and
upon which I look with feelings of gratitude for your
never-ending kindness to me. Our Xmas was spent
in the usual manner, with the difference that we were
at the Stadtschloss in Potsdam. The children were
all present, though the younger ones suffered from
colds and unblowable noses. 'V^ereas myself suffered
from a sudden attack of fever and prostration, which
kept me in bed for the greater part of the Xmas
holidays, and came partly from being overworked.

The old year closes with a great success to your
arms and policy in Africa, which will make the faces
merry in British homes and the hearts of your soldiers
beat higher ! And well they may ! For what can a
soldier or sailor do better than win and fight for the
country of his birth and for his Queen ? I have also to
thank you for all the kind messages which you sent me
through Sir Frank, who transmitted them with a face
happy at being able to do so and by the souvenirs of
his stay at Balmoral. I am so sorry I was not in-
formed of the little plot you and Mama had hatched
for a meeting now on our homeward voyage ; had I
known it beforehand, I would have braved any
amount of rolling and pitching in the “ Bay ” only to
be able to see you !

The coming year looks queer enough ! France is in
a terrible plight, and the fight about Dreyfus, etc., has
disclosed a fearful amount of corruption and injustice

TTT 2"

824 ICAISER ON THE PEACE CONFERENCE [chap, xiv

in the Government and Army circles. The longing for
scandal, the perpetual, starthng “ disclosures ” have
created a most deplorable state of excitement, which
may one day ease itself in some sort of explosion to-
wards inside or outside ! Voltaire saw his countrymen
were “ half apes and half tigers.” It seems to me as
if they were in the act of changing from the first to
the latter.

The .state of Russia’s finances is bad ! On the brink
of a collapse, one may say. First on account of the
enormous amount of steadily increasing battalions,
etc., which, as far as our frontiers are concerned, are
nearly on war strength sixrce fifteen years. Secondly,
because there is a dreadful agricultural calamity which
has been slowly developing since the last five or six
years* The utterly impoverished peasants are suf-
fering from a terrible famine, generating typhus and
other diseases. Millions have been spent by private
help, Red Cross, the Tsar himself without effect, so
that according to my latest news the Government will
have to ask for 100 millions of marks from the Emperor
to fight the 6411 ! Added to this the bills for the
Siberian railway and the Navy run enormously high,
so that there is cause enough for proclaiming a “ Peace
Conference” ! But" the informations I have till now
managed to extract about the so-called programme and
plans are not very lucid and far from reassuring. A
general agreement is to be come to, that we others are
not to invent new rifles or guns or form new battalions,
whereas the thickness of the armour on the British
battleships is to be “ internationally ” limited to a
certain thickness only ! I suppose for “ international ”
shells to be able to pierce it ! Though how the
Ambassadors are to find out the relation by compari-
son of an inch of British steel on H.M. ships to a rifle
battalion in Tyrol is more than I can tell !

Anyhow, our relations are now so clearly defined, and
the necessity for respecting our mutual interests and the
possibility of mutual help are gaining more and more
on our subjects, that I look out with absolute conft-

1898] GORDON MEMORIAL COLLEGE 325

dence into the coming year ! May it bring Peace or
War, at all events may it bring you health and strength
and success everywhere with the hand of God to
shield and ward you from all evil ! How nice that
dear Mama could be near you ! She enjoys her stay
so much. With the hopes of seeing you next year in
best of health, I kiss your hands, and most respectfully
remain, ever your most dutiful and loving Grandson,
Willy.

Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

Headquartehs, Egyptian Aumy, 29i/i Bee. 1898.
— Lord Kitchener presents his humble duty to your
Majesty and begs to inform your Majesty that he
reached Khartoum yesterday ; he found the troops
had suffered a great deal from the severe malarial
fever contracted on the Blue Nile, as well as from the
very hard work they have recently had both on the
Blue and White Niles, as well as on the Abyssinian
frontier. The Army has lost nearly two thousand men
through death or from being invalided since the
battle of Khartoum, so that some time will be required
to reorganise and recruit, . . .

I beg to express my most sincere thanks to your
Majesty for having subscribed to the Gordon Memorial
College. I have heard to-day that £111,000 have
been subscribed. I hope, when Lord Cromer arrives
here in a few days, he will lay the foundation-stone in
your Majesty’s name.

When I was passing Berber I told the Sheikhs
and headmen about the college. They had already
heard about it from the papers, and were quite de-
lighted ; they told me they had already got 150 boys
they wished to send to the college ; but I had to
inform them I could not allow Berber so large a pro-
portion of the education of the college, and that I
would select fifty from their boys. I feel sure that the
knowledge that England is going to educate the people
of the Soudan has had a good effect throughout Egypt.
I was glad that the Khedive subscribed, as it makes

326 CONGRATULATIONS BY LD. DURFERIN [chap, xiv

all the Mohammedans feel that the college should be
supported.

I humbly beg to express my sincere hope that your
Majesty may have a happy and prosperous New Year.

The Marquis of Dufferin to Queen Victoria.

Clandeboye, Ireland, 80th Dee. 1898.-— The
Marquis of Dufferin and Ava presents his humble duty
to your Majesty, and only takes advantage of your
Majesty’s gracious ])crinission to write to you from
lime to time, in order to wislr your Majesty a happy
New Year, and every blessing that this world can
afford.

Lord Dufferin is sure that your Majesty must have
been greatly gratified by the course of recent events,
by the destruction of the Mahdi’s domination over the
Soudan, and by the deference which France, however
unwillingly, has been compelled to pay to the legiti-
mate demands of your Majesty’s Government. The
effect produced upon the Continent by the stand we
have thus made has been very striking.

From one end of Europe to the other the eminence
of our position has been acknowledged, and in no
previous reign has the name of England and its
Sovereign stood higher in the estimation of the world
at large. The sudden change, too, in the attitude of
America and in the sentiment of its people is another
circumstance which must have pleased your Majesty
very much ; and Lord Dufferin trusts that the effect
of this new departure may continue for many a long
day to falsify the forebodings which he could not help
a few years ago expressing to your Majesty in reference
to the innate hostility amongst many classes of
Americans towards Great Britain.

Lord Dufferin, however, must not trouble your
Majesty further, and will content himself with again
laying at your Majesty’s feet the expression of his deep
gratitude for the constant kindness and consideration
your Majesty has shown towards him during more
than fifty years ; and Lady Dufferin’s and his own

1898] COLONIAL GOVERNOES S27

fervent prayers for your Majesty’s health and happi-
ness. Dotferin and Ava.

Extract from the QueerCs Journal.

Osborne, 31sf Dec. 1898. — ^The last day of a very
eventful year, full of victories, but also of sad events,
one in particular, very dreadful, the assassination of the
sweet, good, and beautiful Empress of Austria ! I have
much cause for thankfulness, my dearest and nearest
have been spared to me, but there are many trials too,
one in particular, my failing eyesight, which is a great
inconvenience ; and my lameness, from rheumatism
and the result of accidents, hampers me very much.

Had some conversation with Mr. Chamberlain,
who says he thinks things are looking better again
everywhere now; and, speaking of the Colonies, he
said it was becoming a great difficulty and trouble to
find suitable Governors for them. In former times
people who had served their country well in different
smaller colonies were promoted to the larger ones ;
and this seemed to answer extremely well ; but now
the Colonies were not content unless a person of high
rank and remarkable distinction was appointed ; and
yet the salary was not increased to enable their proper
position being kept up. Several of the peers who had
gone out had not wished to remain their full time,
which increased the difficulty. Mr. Chamberlain said
he felt the time had nearly come when a circular would
have to be written informing the Colonists that they
must increase the salary and take those who were most
fitted for the post, irrespective of position or name.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO CHAPTER XV

In 1899 the trouble which had long been brewing in South
Africa came to a head. The grievances of the rapidly
grooving Uitlandcr population in the Transvaal — grievances
which had provoked the Jameson Raid of 1896 — had become
intensified with every year that passed without redress.
Throughout the rest of South Africa the two white races,
British and Dutch, had equal civil rights ; and, when the
Transvaal hud its internal independence restored after
Majuba in 1881, it was understood that there also the two
races would receive equal treatment. That understanding
had been ignored ; the Boci's alone had power ; and the
British, to whose industry in the gold mines most of the
prosperity of the state was due, and by whom the main
burden of taxation was borne, were practically excluded from
the franchise, and were in other ways treated, to use the
picturesque expression of Sir Alfred Milner, the British High
Commissioner, as “ helots.” In reply to pressure for reform,
President Kruger and his Government had even endeavoured
to get rid of the control which Great Britain had retained
by Convention over Transvaal Foreign Affairs, and which
constituted a practical — whether or not a formal — suzerainty.

The winter of 1898-1899 ■was one of much uneasiness in
Johannesburg, and there were various incidents emphasising
the prevailing racial inequality — ^particularly the shooting
of an Englishman named Edgar by a Boer policeman who
escaped punishment. In March a gigantic petition, signed
by 21,684 Briti.sh subjects, was forwarded through the British
Agent at Pretoria to Queen Victoria, praying for her Majesty’s
protection, for an enquiry into grievances, and for a reform
of abuses. In consequence a meeting between Sir Alfred
Mihier and Mr. Kruger was held, from 30th May to 5th June,
at Bloemfontein ; but it was without result. Sir Alfred
ctmeentrated on the franchise question, as, if that were
satisfactorily settled, the Uitlanders would have the political
power to get other abuses rectified. He asked for a retro-
spective' arrangement enfranchising the Uitlanders after five
years’ residence, giving them “immediate and substantial
representation.” Mr. Kruger would not go beyond a minimum
of seven years without any retroactive clause ; and he de-
manded arbitration by a foreign Power. In July he got the
Volksraad to pas.s a law making seven years the term, but
under onerous conditions ; and he refused Mr. Chamberlain’s

1899] INTRODUCTORY NOTE 329

proposal for a joint enquiry into the practical effect of the
new Act. Negotiations continued, and the British Govern-
ment avoided the presentation of anything like an ultimatum,
as it cherished the hope, which certainly was entertained
generally in Great Britain, that, after a protracted show of
resistance, Mr. ICruger would yield to demands so obviously
in accordance with reason and justice.

The support of the Empire at large to the British position
was testified by Parliamentary resolutions passed and offers
of military aid telegraphed during July and August from
Canada, Australia, and the West Indies. The legislature of
Natal, which would be the first colony to suffer in case of
war, expressed unanimous sympathy and approval ; but
opinion in Cape Colony, part British, part Dutch, was
divided, and there was in power an Afrikander Bond Ministry,
under Mr. Schreiner. Mr. Kruger’s procrastination moved
Mr. Chamberlain, in a speech at Birmingham on 26th August,
to a strong reminder that the sands were running out, and
that, in case of a rupture, conditions would be imposed to
establish once for all which was the Paramount Power in.
South Africa ; and the garrison of Natal was reinforced by
10,000 men from India and the Mediterranean. In the
continued negotiations there was no sign that the Transvaal
contemplated serious I’cforms ; and the Volksraad of the
Orange Free State responded to an invitation from President
Steyn to range themselves by the side of the Transvaal.
Accordingly, on 29 th September the British Government
gave orders to mobilise a large force and call up the Reserve.
The Transvaal determined to strike before these arrived,
and issued an ultimatum, tantamount to a declaration of
war, on 9th October. The Free State at once joined the
Transvaal in the invasion of the British Colonies.

There was almost complete unanimity in Great Britain
in support of the war. Lord Rosebery, though critical of
past Government action, wrote from his retirement the
decisive word. The House of Commons, in spite of some
ambiguous remarks by the new Liberal leader. Sir Henry
Campbell-Bannerman, expressed its readiness to grant all
necessary supplies by 322 votes to 64, and refused to condemn
the conduct of the negotiations by 362 to 186. As the rein-
forcements from India, under Sir George White, had arrived
in Natal, it was hoped that the Boers could be held in check
until the main British forces could take the field. On the
contrary, after some small successes in initial engagements.

880 INTRODUCTOKY NOTE [chap, xv

Sir George’s whole force was shut up in Ladysmith ; and
in the we.stcm theatre of war, one British force, under
Colonel Kckewich, was beleaguered at Kimberley, and
another, under Colonel Badcn-Powell, at Mafeking. When
Sir Redvers Buller, the Commander-in-Chief, arrived at
Cape Town early in November, he organised a force under
Lord Methuen to proceed to the relief of Kimberley, another
under General Gatacre to repel the invasion of Cape Colony
by the Free State, and a lax-gcr force in Natal, where he
shortly proceeded to take the command in person, to relieve
Ladysmith, Ijord Methuen fought three successful engage-
ments, at Belmont on 28rd November, at Enslin on 25th,
and at Modder River on 28th — the last two strenuous battles
with heavy losses. A fortnight later there came a “ black
week.” On 10th December General Gatacre failed in a night
attack at Stomiberg, on 11th Lord Methuen was defeated
with severe loss at Magersfontein, and on 15th Sir Redvers
Buller met with a serious reverse at Colenso, in an attempt
to cross the Tugela in his advance on Ladysmith, Sir
Redvers’ judgment was so affected by his defeat that he
telegraphed home suggesting that he should “ let Ladysmith
go ” — a course promptly rejected by Ministers, who urged
him to resume his efforts for Sir George White’s relief.

The Queen, the Cabinet, and public opinion alike felt that
only one policy was possible — the most vigorous prosecution
of the -war. On 16th December, the very day after Colenso,
the Government resolved to entrust the command-in-chief in
South Africa to the tried veteran, Lord Roberts, with Lord
Kitchener as Chief of his Staff, leaving the command of the
Natal Field Force to Sir Redvers Buller ; to call up the rest of
the Reserve ; to send out further troops forthwith ; to utilise
to a large extent the services of Militia, Yeomanry, and Volun-
teers; and to accept the offers of military aid that came pour-
ing in from the great Colonics. The response, both at home
and in the Colonies, was extraordinary. Militia, Yeomanry,
and Volunteers vied in their readiness to serve. The City of
liOndon raised and equipped at its own expense a regiment
of 1,400 marksmen, the City Imperial Volunteers, from
Metropolitan Volunteer Corps. Before the year closed,
contingent after contingent had been authorised from all
parts of the Empire, The spectacle impressed the world ;
and, though the Continental newspapers almost universally
reviled and belittled us, their Governments maintained a
strict neutralitv.

1899] INTRODUCTORY NOTE 3S1

While British arms had a temporary set-back in South
Africa, in the Nile Valley the Khalifa and mo$t of his remaining
emirs were defeated and slain in battle in November by an
Anglo-Egyptian force under Sir Reginald Wingate, who, on
Lord Kitchener’s summons to join Lord Roberts, became
Sirdar and Governor-General of the Soudan. In Australia
the Federal Act was passed in five out of six Colonies, Western
Australia still hesitating. The Samoan question was settled
by Great Britain consenting to let the islands be divided
between the United States and Germany, and to secure for
herself the Tonga and other neighbouring islands. Germany
also bought the Caroline and other Pacific Islands from
Spain. A satisfactory boundary line was drawn for British
Guiana by the Venezuelan Arbitration in Paris.

In France, President Faure died suddenly in February,
and M. Loubet succeeded him. Again the Dreyfus case
dominated politics. Violent scenes, in which M. Ddroulede
figured conspicuously, and in which even the President was
sometimes insulted, constantly occurred in the streets of
Paris. The Court of Cassation in June set aside the judgment
against Dreyfus, and remitted the case to a fresh Court-
martial at Rennes, which ultimately, on 9th September,
found him guilty, but with extenuating circumstances, by
5 votes to 2. Happily the weak Dupuy Ministry had
meanwhile been succeeded by a much stronger combination
under M. Waldeck-Rousseau. General Galliffet, the War
Minister, recommended the President to grant Dreyfus a free
pardon ; and made it his own business to purge the army
of anti-Semite and insubordinate Generals. M. DerouRde
was prosecuted and eventually convicted and sentenced.

The Peace Conference, to which the Tsar had invited the
Powers, met at The Hague on 18th May. Its principal out-
come was a resolution by the signatory Powers to resort to
arbitration or mediation before appealing to arms, and the es-
tablishment of a permanent international court at The Hague.

Queen Victoria’s eightieth birthday drew the affectionate
thoughts of her world-wide subjects to her on 24th May. To-
wards the close of November her Majesty welcomed to Windsor
on a five days’ visit the German Emperor and Empress and
two of their sons, accompanied by Count Billow. The
Imperial party spent three days afterwards as guests at
Sandringham, The Queen took an absorbing interest in
the South African war ; and her faith in complete victory
was not at all shaken by the reverses of the “ black week.”

CHAPTER XV
1899

\Telegram,'\ Lord Cromer to Quee7i Victoria,

Khartoum, 5th Ja7t. 1899.— At Sirdar’s request I
this morning laid foundation-stone of Gordon College
in your Majesty’s name. Cromer.

\Telegram.'\ Queen Victoria to Lord Cromer.

5ih Jan. 1899. — ^Accept best thanks gratifying
telegram. May this good work prosper and bring
welfare and happiness to the inhabitants of that great
country ! V. R. I.

Lord Cromer to Queen Victoria.

Khartoum, 5th Jan. 1899. — . . . Lord Cromer
little thought a few years ago he would ever have the
honour of addressing a letter to your Majesty from a
spot a few hundred yards from where General Gordon
was killed.

Lord Cromer ventures to enclose copies of two
short speeches, the first of which he made yesterday
at Omdurman to the assembled Sheikhs and notables
with a view to explaining the general principles which
would in future govern ' the administration of the
Soudan. The second was made this morning at
Khartoum on the occasion of laying the foundation-
stone of the Gordon College. In both speeches Lord
Cromer was authorised to make use of your Majesty’s
name. He trusts that the language he employed will
meet with your Majesty’s gracious approval.

1899] LORD CROMER AT KHARTOUM 333

Lord Cromer has been very much struck with the
desert railway from Wadi Haifa to the Atbara, a dis-
tance of some 400 miles, which was constructed by the
young Engineer Officers of your Majesty’s Army. It
is a most creditable piece of work, and contributed,
perhaps more than anything else, to the remarkable
success of the recent campaign.

The people appear, for the most part, to be in a
very miserable and poverty-stricken condition. Some
time must elapse before prosperity can return. Lord
Cromer was much struck by the fact that many of the
villagers with whom he talked enquired after Zebehr
Pasha. Your Majesty will, without doubt, remember
the strong representations which were made by
General Gordon in 1884 on the subject of sending
Zebehr Pasha to Khartoum.^ He evidently possessed
great influence, which survives even now. . . .

Sir Edmund Monson to Queen Victoria.

Paris, %th Jan. 1899. — Sir Edmund Monson pre-
sents his humble duty to your Majesty, and has the
honour to submit that having recently been received
at the Elysee for the purpose of presenting to the
President your Majesty’s answer to the letter of recall
of the Baron de Courcel from the French Embassy in
London, he thinks it may be interesting to report that
M. Faure, who at once opened and read your Majesty’s
letter, said that he was much gratified at the convic-
tion that your Majesty’s words were not only a formal
and conventional expression of approval, but conveyed
a genuine appreciation of the conduct of the retiring
Ambassador, during the period in which he has been
accredited at your Majesty’s Court. The Baron de
Courcel had frequently spoken to him of your gracious
kindness, and had stated to him that your Majesty’s
constant consideration and goodness had inspired him
with sincere gratitude, and made it very painful for
him to resign his post. M. Faure added that M,
Cambon, who had come over to France for the
* See Second Series, vol. iii, pp. 480 and 482-485.

88^ PRESIDENT FAURE AND THE QUEEN [chap, xv

Christmas and New Year’s holidays, had been pro-
foundly impressed by the graciousness of your Majesty’s
reception of him as representative of the Republic ;
and the President added that he was confident that
your Majesty would find M. Cambon to be a worthy
successor to the Baron de Courcel.

M. Faure went on to refer briefly to the relations
between England and France, and to express his hope
that the efforts made on both sides of the Channel to
preserve the peace would be successful in promoting a
harmony on which the progress of civilisation almost
exclusively depends. The President then at once
enquired as to your Majesty’s intentions with regard to
a visit to the South of France, stating that he had
heard with great pleasure that you had positively
settled to return to Nice this spring. Sir Edmund
replied that he believed that your Majesty had in fact
never varied from this intention ; but that he had not
yet received intimation of the exact date at which you
contemplate proceeding to the shore of the Mediter-
ranean.

Before leaving the President Sir Edmund ex-
pressed his good wishes for the coming year, not only
for M. Faure and his family, but for the whole of
France, which gave the President the opportunity of
observing, which he did with much impressiveness and
gravity, that the internal situation of France was not
understood abroad ; and that the excitement caused
by the Dreyfus case has been greatly exaggerated.
As Sir Edmund has already stated to Lord Salisbury,
he believes that there is some truth in M. Faure’s
assertion, but he is at the same time of opinion that M.
P'aure is himself misled when he minimises so positively
the extent to which the public is interested in this
question.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Conjidentidl. Foreign Offick, IGt/i January 1899.

My deab, Sie Akthue, — I t is clear to me that we
cannot, on the strength of gloomy phrases, either in the

1899] THE QUEEN AND CIMIEZ 335

press or an Ambassador’s private letter, incur the risk of
pain, which would result from a change of plans now.

There are revolutions and revolutions, If Pres-
ident Faure were flying for his life, it might be
difficult for the Queen to remain at Cimiez, But if
they went no farther than locking out the Court of
Cassation, or lodging a certain number of Jews in
Mazas, I do not know why H.M. should take any
notice of the transaction. But if she were nervous,
she could always, with her horses, find herself on the
other side of the frontier in two hours. Such a change
of plans might not be entirely dignified, but it would
be better than countermanding the preparations now.
I can suggest no precautions except perhaps taking a
suite of rooms at Bordighera in the name of one of the
Ladies-in-Waiting. But, as far as I can venture to
forecast the situation, a bad revolution is improbable ;
and if it occurs, it is hkely to be accompanied by an
immediate peril of war, which wiU entirely alter the
position of the Royal party. Ever yours truly,
Salisbury,

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 2Srd Jan. 1899. — ^Had seen Mr, Balfour
before dinner, who spoke sensibly on all matters, and
thought the look-out in Europe was good now, on the
whole. He could not imagine why the French should
have thought we were going to attack them, gave a
good report of Lord Salisbury’s health, regretted the
violence on religious matters in this country, and the
action of some which had done great harm, by adding
fuel to the flames.

Bishop Davidson to Queen Victoria.

Lindisfabne, Boubnkmoutk, 25th January 1890.

Madam, — ^Your Majesty was good enough to desire
me to write about the result of my visit yesterday to
Sir Wniiam Harcourt,

I had a great deal of conversation with him ; and,
while in his general wish to maintain the true Pro-

386 SIR W. HARCOURT AND THE CHURCH [chap, xv

testant character of the Church of England against
foolish innovations I am in full agreement with him,
I yet cannot think his present violent and heated
letters ^ are conducive to a wise result. He is stirring
up passions which had slumbered, and the result of that
will be to make a solution more and more difficult.

I tried to point this out to him, but without much
effect, I fear. I told him, of course, what your
Majesty had said upon the subject.

I am now corresponding with Sir William privately
upon some of the points raised in the controversy ;
and perhaps your Majesty will graciously afford me
some opportunity of reporting further upon the whole
subject before very long. The Bishops are placed at
present in a most anxious and difficult position, as
your Majesty knows.

I have the honour to be, your Majesty’s obedient
humble servant, Randall Winton.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 27th Jan. 1899. — ^William’s fortieth birth-
day. I wish he were more prudent and less impulsive
at such an age !

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Berlin, 2nd February 1899.

Most beloved Grandmama, — ... I fuUy under-
stand how extraordinary the fact must seem to you
that the tiny, weeny little brat you often had in your
arms and dear Grandpapa swung about in a napkin
has reached the forties ! Just the half of your pros-
perous and successful life ! It is full of heavy un-
ceasing work, and animated with my untiring trials
to emulate such grand example as you set us all. It
is often full of moments when I fancy that the strain
is too strong and the burden too heavy to bear. But
then the trust in Him who has thus ordered it to be
and who deals to everyone the measure suiting to his
qualities gives one strength; as well as the happy

‘ They were appearing in The Timet,

1899] GERMAN EMPEROR FORTY 337

knowledge that you observe and follow my career
with the love of a very, very kind Grandmother.
And I venture to believe that, where the Sovereign
will sometimes shake her wise head often over the
tricks of her queer and impetuous colleague, the good
and genial heart of my Grandmother will step in and
show that, if he sometimes fails, it is never from want
of goodwill, honesty, or truthfulness, and thus mitigate
the shake of the head by a genial smile of warm
sympathy and interest ! I am so glad you wish me
to come and see you in England, and would be thank-
ful to know what suits you best, Balmoral or Cowes ?
After a winter like on the Riviera, we have snow and
cold since two days and influenza aU over Berlin.

With my warmest thanks I kiss your hand, and
most respectfully remain, ever your most devoted and
obedient Grandson, Willy.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 6th Feh. 1899. — Much distressed to hear
by a telegram from Dr. Bankart, who accompanied
young Alfred 1 to Meran, that he is worse, and that
his condition is most critical. Later there came
another telegram saying : “ Now imminent danger of
heart failure.” Communicated with Bertie and the
rest of the family. Affle telegraphed that, on account
of the bad news, he was starting for Meran at once.
About seven heard from Reuter that the poor dear boy
had passed away. I felt quite stunned and shaken,
for what a blow this will be to his unfortunate parents,
and what changes and complications it will cause !
My anxiety has been great for the last few days.
Beatrice brought in a telegram from poor dear Affie,
from Gotha, begging her to break the news to me.
He was just starting for Meran, when he got the news.
What will happen now ? Arthur, who is the next
heir, cannot give up his military career here. There
is still his boy, and failing him Charlie.®

The Duke of Coburg’s only son.

* The young Duke of Albany, son of Prince Leopold.

888 THE BANDMASTERS’ COMMISSIONS [chap, xv

Colonel Barrington Foote to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Woiitij:y IIa!.!., SnnPFrcLD, 6lh February 1800.

My dear. Arthur, — Can yon perchance throw any
light on what is really the substantial outcome of the
Gazette in which Miller, Godfrey, and Zavertal appeared
as Second (Hon.) Lieutenants ? ^ At Woolwich we
naturally assumed that this meant that they were to
be officers. We were so pleased that telegrams went
off to Zavertal, who was abroad, of most hearty con-
gratulations. We asked him to mess and he dined
with us. The January Army List came out, and to our
astonishment Godfrey and Zavertal appeared still as
Warrant Officers. I am Band President and, with the
consent and wish of the Committee and also of the
C.R.A. at Woolwich, wrote to Colonel Wright, D.A.G.
Royal Marines, and to Colonel Brocklehurst of the
Blues. The latter tells me that, as far as they can
see, Godfrey and Zavertal are in the same boat, and
that neither of them are officers, only Warrant Officers
still, and that therefore they get none of the outfit
allowance accorded to a man getting his commission
from the ranks, nor do they benefit in eventual
pension, nor in present allowances, i.e. the whole
thing appears to be really meaningless.

Colonel Wright says : “ Mr. Miller is in possession
of a commission as Hon. Second Lieutenant Royal
Marine Rorces, signed by her Majesty. My view is
that a man holding such is an officer, and that the
Commission, though honorary, entirely effaces the
Warrant he previously held.”

As against this the actual wording of the War
Gffice ruling which Colonel Wright sent to me to see is :
“ They are Warrant Officers with Hon. Commissioned
rank. They do not hold substantial rank as officers ”
(this naturally, being from War Office, only refers to
Godfrey and Zavertal).

Can you throw any light on this ? H.R.H. the
Duke of Connaught himself spoke to me last October

‘ See above, pp, 292-1, 812, 817, anil below, pp. 842, 848, 390, 417.

1899] A NEW OPPOSITION LEADER 339

about Zavertal’s getting a Commission, and certainly
I gathered that he referred to what you and I
and officers generally mean by that. H.R.H. was
strongly in favour of this well-deserved advance-
ment. . . . Yours ever, F. 0. Barkington Foote.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

10 Downing Street, 7th Feb. 1899. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that Parliament opened
to-day in the ordinary way. , . . Captain Bagot and
Mr. F. Smith 1 (the son of the late W. H. Smith)
were respectively the mover and seconder of the
Address. They performed their delicate functions
with eloquence and ability.

Sir H, Campbell-Bannerman followed — ^his first
appearance as leader of the Opposition. He spoke
(in Mr. Balfour’s opinion) extremely well ; somewhat
more aggressively perhaps than is usual on such
occasions, but this was perhaps not unnatural under
the special circumstances of his case. He travelled
over the whole field of foreign politics. His chief
points of criticism were China and Crete ; and he
apparently aimed at proving that no weaker or more
vacillating Foreign Minister than Lord Salisbuiy had
ever existed, and that the national enthusiasm over
the Fashoda affair was really a protest in disguise
against the supposed indecision of the Government !
On domestic affairs he had little to say except that
after all that had been promised in past years by Mr.
Chamberlain and others about Old Age pensions, it
was strange that no mention of them was made in the
Queen’s Speech. Thus analysed there does not seem
to be much in his criticisms, which at times were
grossly unfair. But they were very well delivered
and full of humorous touches and eloquent passages :
it was a good beginning to his term of leadership.

Mr. Balfour replied in detail, but his reply con-
sisted in the main of the obvious answers to obvious

' Afterwards Viscount Hambleden,

III— 28

810 QUESTION OF CUMMANUEK-IN -CHIEF [chap, xv

arguments. The only speakers of importance who
addressed the House later in the evening were Sir C.
Dilke and Mr. Brodrick, It was Mr. Brodrick’s first
appearance as Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
He spoke with judgment and discretion.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

9th Feb. 1899. — The Queen has gladly approved of
the Ordnance Factories being placed under military
instead of civilian direction. This necessitates alter-
ing the Order in Council of 1895 which she thinks will
give an excellent opportunity to further revise that
unfortunate Order with a view of re-establishing the
position and authority of the Commander-in-Chief,
especially with regard to the discipline of the Army,
for which, as Lord Salisbury himself admitted, he
should be directly responsible. He ought not to be a
head of a department, but the Supreme Military Chief
responsible to the Sovereign (the head of the Army)
for its military, as opposed to its civil, administration.

The Queen hopes Lord Salisbury will be able to
do something in this most important matter, as from
all quarters she hears complaints as to the manage-
ment of the Army.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria

Foreign Office, 10th Feb. 1899. — ^Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully acknowledges your
Majesty’s letter which he received last night. He
thanks your Majesty very much for the information
it contains. , . . He will carefully consider the
matters concerning the War Office which your
Majesty has commended to his attention. . . .

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor, V7th Feb. 1899. — Saw Lord Salisbury
before dinner. The difficulties about Africa he hoped
were being successfully overcome. He quite agreed
with me that, while William appeared to wish to be
on good terms with us, he did not wish that we should

1899] DEATH OF PRESIDENT FAURE 341

be so with other countries and in particular Russia,
whom he was always trying to set us against. Lord
Salisbury does not at all believe the stories he tells.

Mr. Lister^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Bhitish EMBAssy, Paris, VJth February 1899.

Deae. Sib Abthur, — ^You wdl by this time have
received the telegram in which I informed you that
in the absence of the Ambassador at Cannes, I was in
charge of the Embassy, although, in accordance with
Foreign Office custom, I continued to sign telegrams
“ Monson.” I thought it wiser to apprise you of this
fact in case of any misunderstanding, as Sir Edmund
will not be in Paris until Sunday morning.

I received the sad news of the President’s sudden
death just as I was leaving the Gustave Rothschilds,
where I had dined, almost next door to the Elysee. I
consequently went round at once to enquire, and was
one of the first to caU. They told me at the gates
that nobody could be admitted, but on my sending in
my name I was received by one of the Members of the
Household, who confirmed the sad news. I tele-
graphed at once to the Queen, the Prince of Wales,
and Lord Salisbury.

This morning I received the Queen’s telegram, and
in accordance with her Majesty’s commands I addressed
a letter to Madame Faure, conveying to her the assur-
ance of her Majesty’s heartfelt sympathy and deep
regret for the heavy blow which had fallen upon her
and the whole French nation. This letter I handed
myself to General BaiUoud, head of the Military
Household, who promised to deliver it at once to
Madame Faure.

Count Munster, whom I saw this afternoon, informs
me that he has, by command of the German Emperor,
deposited a wreath in the ChapeUe Ardente temporarily
arranged in the Elysee, where Monsieur Fame’s body
now lies. The Emperor of Russia has, I believe, sent
a palm. . . . Yours sincerely, Reginald Lister.

1 Afterwards'Sir Reginald Lister.

342

M, LOUBET CHOSEN PRESIDENT [chap, xv

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor, 18th Feb. 1899. — Heard that M. Loubet,
who had been Prime Minister in ’92, had been elected
by a large majority as President. He is said to be an
honest respectable man, and not to have taken any
violent Dreyfus part.

Had some conversation with the Bishop of London
on the most unfortunate squabbles in the Church.
The Low Church, who started the whole thing, were
quite as violent and more so than the extreme
ritualistic party, and very unreasonable. The Bishop
said he was shocked to see that there was still as great
a feehng for persecution in this nineteenth century
as hundreds of years ago, which is very dreadful.

Queen Vietoiia to Madame Fame.

[Copie.] WiNDSOn Castle, le 19 F^vrier 1899.

Madame, — Je ne puis r6sister au vif d6sir que
j’^prouve de vous exprimer ma sympathie et la vive
part que je prends au grand raalheur qui vient de vous
frapper.

Le President a et4 si aimable, si bon pour moi, et
en toutes occasions m’a temoigne tant de courtoisie
que j’en garderai toujours un bien bon souvenir.

Pour vous, Madame, si cruellement eprouvee dans
la perte si soudaine de votre bien-aime epoux, je ne
puis que prier que Dieu vous accorde la force et la
resignation pour supporter ce coup terrible, Je me
dis, Madame, votre sincere Victoria R. I.

Sir Coleridge Grove to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War Opucb, London, S.W., 2nth February 1899.

My dear Bigge,’— T he difficulty about the Band-
masters^ is simple, but considerable.

If we take them out of the Warrant Officers class
they will not, as matters stand at present, get one
farthing of pay, pensions, etc., etc. The Warrant
at present provides for their pay and pensions as
Warrant Officers, and in no other way. To make them

* See above, pp. 292-4, 312, 317, and below, p. 848.

1899] SLATIN AND GORDON SOUVENIRS 343

officers we must constitute a new class of Bandmaster
(Officer), with special rates of pay and pension provided
for it, just as pay and pensions are provided for
Quartermasters in Arts. 229 and 634 of the Warrant.
This will require the insertion of new Arts, in the
Warrant which can only he done with Treasury
sanction. All this can be done, and Lord Wolseley is
quite ready to put the proposal forward. But it will
take time, and I myself anticipate some difficulty with
the Treasury. . . . Yours sincerely, Coleridge Grove.

Extract from the Queen^s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 28th Feb. 1899. — ^After tea saw
Slatin Pasha, who has come to stay for three days.
He brought me souvenirs he had had made for me, a piece
of stone from the step on which General Gordon was
killed at Khartoum, and a frame containing dried roses
from the garden of Gordon’s Palace with his photo-
graph. He rejoiced in the great success of the
expedition to Omdurman, and said what a satisfaction
it had given him to enter in triumph the place in
which he had suffered so much. It was of cortrse
unfortunate that the Khalifa had not been caught.

[Draft.] Queen Victoria to the Emperor of Bussia.

Windsor Castle, 1st March 1899. — I feel I must
write and tell you something which you ought to know
and perhaps do not. It is, I am sorry to say, that
William takes every opportunity of impressing upon
Sir F. Laseelles that Russia is doing all in her power
to work against us ; that she offers alliances to other
Powers, and has made one with the Ameer of Afghan-
istan against us.

I need not say that I do not believe a word of this,
neither do Lord Salisbury nor Sir F. Laseelles.

But I am afraid William may go and tell things
against us to you, just as he does about you to us.
If so, pray tell me openly and confidentially. It is
so important that we should imderstand each other,
and that such mischievous and unstraightforward

844 AUSTRALIAN FEDERATION [chap, xv

proceedings should be put a stop to. You are so
true yourself, that I am sui-e you will be shocked at
this. . . . V.R.I.i

Lord Brassey to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Melbourne, March
1899. — ^Lord Brassey presents his humble duty to the
Queen Empress, and desires briefly to report the
progress made in relation to Australian Federation.
The ultimate adoption of a Federal Government
seems assured in all the colonies of Australia with the
exception of Western Australia. Some time must
necessarily be occupied in obtaining the approval of
the legislatures and the endorsement of the popular
vote. It seems inevitable that the reference to the
Imperial Legislature must be postponed to the session
of 1900. The Federal Government will not therefore
be constituted until the end of next year.

In the interval the selection of a Governor- General
will be considered ; and Lord Brassey humbly submits
to your Majesty that the presence of a Member of the
Royal Family, whether as a Special Commissioner to
open the first Federal Parhament, or in some other
position of dignity, is highly desirable.

It would be greatly appreciated, and could not
fail to have a powerful effect in encouraging the loyal
feeling of the millions of her Majesty’s subjects who
have found a home in Australia.

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

War Office, %ih March 1899. — ^Lord Wolseley pre-
sents his humble duty to the Queen, and has learnt with
satisfaction from Sir A. Bigge that her Majesty wishes
that the Commander-in-Chief should have charge of
and be responsible for the discipline of the Army.

Until the Order in Council of 1895 that responsi-
bility has always been one of the most important
functions of the Commander-in-Chief. It is still the
function of the Commander-in-Chief of aU foreign

‘ Tliis letter is printed in a note to Lee’s King Edward VH, vol. i,
p. 741.

315

1899] LORD WOLSELEY ON DISCIPLINE

armies, and is so still that of the General Officer
Commanding in Ireland, in India, and in aU our pos-
sessions beyond the sea. The words of the Order in
Council bearing on this matter are : “ The Commander-
in-Chief shall exercise general command over her
Majesty’s Military Forces at home and abroad, shall
issue army orders, and hold periodical inspection of
troops. He shall be the principal adviser of the
Secretary-of-State on all military questions, and shall
be charged with the general supervision of the Military
Departments of the War Office.” On the other hand,
the Order says : “ The Adjutant-General shall be
charged with the discipline, etc., etc,, etc,, of the
officers, non-commissioned officers, and men of the
Regular and Reserve Forces.”

Thus, whilst the Commander-m-Chief exercises
general control, the Adjutant-General is directly
charged with and responsible for discipline, and only
one officer in an army can be held responsible for its
discipline. That responsibility cannot be shared by
two without danger.

The system applied to the Army in Great Britain
could not be carried out with an army in the field. It
is, however, an arrangement that Lord Wolseley
accepted upon assuming the office he now holds, and
therefore, although contrary to his views of sound
military organisation, he can have no good personal
reason to complain of it. It is Lord Lansdowne’s
intention, as he has assured the Commander-in- Chief,
that the Adjutant-General should invariably consult
the Commander-in-Chief upon all important questions
and matters which bear upon the discipline of the
Army, but he does not wish to alter the wording of
the Order in Council upon the subject. I have the
honour to be, your Majesty’s most humble and faithful
servant, Wolseley.

Extract from the Queen's Journal

Windsor Castle, 10th March 1899. — ^Dreadfully
grieved and upset on coming in to get a telegram from

S46

OLD SERVANT OF THE QUEEN [chap, xv

my dear good Emilie Dxttweiler’s sister, saying Emilie
had had a stroke or heart failure, and had died peace-
fully last night. It was a great shock, as I never
knew she had been ill, and she had been such a faithful
servant of mine for thirty-two years. I was very fond
of her, and she was much attached to me, and liked
and respected by all. She left me in ’92 to go and
live with a delicate sister, who now survives her ! In
’94 I saw her at Coburg, and she came on a visit to
Balmoral and then again for the last time for the
Jubilee in ’97, which she enjoyed so much.

It is another valuable link with the past gone. All
fall around me, and I become more and more lonely.
So many sad events have already occurred this year.
It makes one tremble.

Qiieen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

10th March 1899. — Have heard from Lord Wolseley
that he showed to Lord Lansdowne his letter which I
sent you last night, so there is no reason why you
shoidd not now refer to it in discussion with S. of S.

C.-in-C. merely asks that Order in Council shall
run : “ C.-in-C. is vested with the general command
and discipline of H.M. Military Forces.” This in-
volves very slight addition to the Order. I trust you
will induce S. of S, to agree to this. V. R. I.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

10th March 1899. — ^Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully acknowledges your Majesty’s letter
and telegram with respect to the duties of the Com-
mander-in- Chief. Lord Lansdowne appears to have
conceded the substance of Lord Wolseley’s wish, but
to resist as to the embodiment of that concession in a
change of the Order in Council.

Lord Salisbury would be very glad to see the
matter arranged as your Majesty wishes. But it is
quite possible that Lord Lansdowne will adhere to his
view that the Order in Council ought not to be changed.

1899] THE COBURG SUCCESSION 347

Lord Salisbury will do what he can to persuade him.
But he does not think that it would be for your
Majesty’s service to change Government just now ;
and it is probable that, if Lord Lansdowne resigned,
the other Liberal Unionist Members of the Govern-
ment would decline to remain.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

CiMiEZ, IMh March 1899. — The Queen received
Lord Salisbury’s letter in answer to hers enclosing
Lord Wolseley’s just as she was leaving Windsor.
Of course the Queen does not wish for a moment to
bring on a crisis with Lord Lansdowne, but she must
say she cannot believe that any Minister would think
of resigning on such a trifling point as well as not
wishing to agree to her wishes. . . . He has admitted
to Lord Wolseley that he agrees with him in substance,
and why won’t he let a very few words be put in
or added to the Order in Council which might, she
fancies, even not be made generally public.

Lord Lansdowne seems so anxious for the well-
being and proper working of the Army that she cannot
believe that he would really stand out upon such a
trifling point when he does agree to the real substance.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

CiMiEZ, 15th March 1899. — Affie came to my room
at half-past ten. He was very upset and could
scarcely speak. After a little time he alluded to the
future, and seemed to wish and think young Arthur
should finish his education in Germany and be brought
up there. This is unfortunately the very reverse of
what Arthur wishes, and had told me this afternoon.
Affie said it would not be liked in Germany if the
Hereditary Prince were brought up in another country,
and that even he himself, who had been a great deal
in Germany before he lived there, had found it very
difficult ; also that his own position would be made
almost untenable if the wishes of the people were not

3i8 BANDMASTERS AND COMMISSIONS [chap, xv

complied with, and might lead to his being turned out
altogether. I told Affie that Arthur was strongly
opposed to giving up his son’s English education ; how-
ever, he would see both Arthur and Bertie to-morrow.

20th March . — I dictated a Memorandum for Sir
Robert Collins ^ telling him about the state of affairs
at Coburg and the possibility of the succession coming
to Charlie. There has been a great deal of talk
between all my children about this vexed question
of the succession.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Mr. Edward Hamilton.^
[Copy.^ Private. Cimjez, 21s< March 1899.

My dear Hamilton, — Can you help us in a matter
in which the Queen is personally much interested ?
At H.M.’s somewhat urgent request the War Office
recently recommended three or four Bandmasters for
promotion.® But so far they have only been appointed
Second Lieutenants, and not as the Queen wished, com-
missioned officers with corresponding pay and pension.

This will involve a slight addition to the Royal
Warrant. Entre nous the War Office do not altogether
smile upon the proposal, and we are warned that the
Treasury may prove to be a rock upon which it will be
wrecked. The Queen, however, is anxious that the
matter should be sent on to the Treasury. In the
Diamond Jubilee Year she had wished to confer this
mark of her appreciation and favour upon the only
class in the Array who hitherto have been debarred
from the commission rank, but difficulties were raised
and the question dropped.

The extra expense involved will be merely nominal,
as it is only proposed to give a few commissions to
those Bandmasters who, by their musical abilities,
length of service, or excellence of their bands, are con-
sidered most worthy of advancement. Yours very
truly, Arthur Bigge.

* Of the Duchess of Albany’s Household. - Of the Treasury.

® See above, p. 312, and below, p. 390.

1899] MR. RHODES AND PRINCE OF WALES

849

Mr. Edward Hamilton to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Private. Treasury Chajibehb, 2Qrd March 1899.

My deab, Bigge, — We have heard nothing as yet
about the proposal for promotion of Bandmasters, and,
as you wiU understand, we cannot do anything until
we are moved by the Secretary of State. But if and
when the proposal is made I will do my best to see
that no obstacles are opposed here, though in days
like these, when the constable is being outrun, any
recommendations involving increase of expenditure
are naturally viewed askance. . . . Yours sincerely,
Ed. Hamilton,

Mr. Cecil Rhodes to the Prince of Wales.^

Burlington Hotel, [Undated, ? March 1899.]

Your Royal Highness, — I found that the King
of the Belgians was not in want of money and the
calls on him are not excessive. The Belgian State
gives him 80,000 a year in aid of the administration of
the Congo State, and he has floated many companies
in Belgium for Congo development, in which he has a
good many shares ; in fact, there is quite a Congo
Stock Exchange at Brussels.

The more serious matter was that under the
Anglo-Belgian Treaty of ’94 made by Lord Rosebery,
we had given the King, (1) a strip of country along the
Nile for his life ; (2) the Bahr-el-Ghazal for so long as
the Congo remained a Belgian Colony. The King
told me practically that he would not let my telegraph
come through until we had given him the Bahr-el-
Ghazal. He claims that Lord Rosebery gave it to
him without conditions, and that he was within his
rights in letting portions to the French, and that now
that we have settled with the French we must hand it
over to him. I am sure the Enghsh people, after such
a struggle with the French, are not going to have it
handed over to the Belgians. I felt that there is
likely to be a pretty squabble over the matter, and

' Presumably submitted by the Prince of Wales to the Queen,

850 ME. ERODES AND THE KAISER [chap, xv

that between the two my telegraph would go to the
wall. I enclose you. Sir, the Anglo-Congo Treaty and
map to explain the matter.

My only chance for getting my telegraph on at
once was to get permission from the Emperor of
Germany. I had heard unofficially that he would like
to see me, so on my return from Egypt I went to Berlin,
and was received very cordially, and made an agree-
ment with the German Ministers to bring my telegraph
through German East Africa ; it was most necessary,
as I am now on their boundary, and as I could not
come through the Congo I must have stopped. The
Germans of course did not know of the difficulty with
the King of the Belgians. However, it was the
Emperor who influenced his Ministers and practically
made the agreement with me. I feel sme he is most
anxious to work with England, and I think he is fond
of the English ; he must be so, for after all he is half an
Englishman. I think he is very sensitive, for he
spoke about the way the English papers had abused
him. I heard in Berlin, on good authority, and I am
sure, Sir, you will not mind my repeating it, that he
thinks you do not like lum, and that he is very anxious
to gain your good opinion. I hope he is coming to
Cowes, and I thought you would not mind my mention-
ing what I heard, and from a source which would not
be pure gossip.

I think as our Ministers have settled African
questions with Germany and we have agreed on the
open door in China, we ought to try and work with
Germany, and the Emperor is really Germany, at
least, it appeared to me to be so when I was in Berlin,
Ministers doing just as he desired and the Reichstag
most docile. I am sure, Sir, you were very annoyed
at his telegram, and as it was aimed at my so-called
misconduct, you were really kindly in your feelings to
myself ; that is the past, and it seems to me that in
view of the complications in the world we must work
with some nation, and Germany seems the best. I do
not know whether these are your views, Sir, but I

1899] FRENCH AND ENGLISH IN N. AFRICA 351

hope you will pardon my writing so frankly every-
thing that occurred. I am sure of this that, if you
showed him good feeling when he came to England, it
would immensely influence his mind. Your servant,
C. J. Rhodes.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

21st March (1899), — ^Humble duty, I have to-day
come to an arrangement with the French Ambassador
with respect to the boundary between French and
English spheres of influence in Africa.

It keeps the French entirely out of Nile Valley, and
restores management of Egyptian Province of Darfur.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

CiMiEZ, 23rd March 1899. — ^Affie came to luncheon,
and remained with me some time afterwards. He
talked of the family burial-place at Coburg, whither
the remains of poor young Alfred will be brought. He
explained to me all they intend arranging. Then saw
Sir A. Bigge about the Coburg succession affairs.
Drove with May and Thora. Had a good deal of con-
versation with the former, who is so wonderfully wise
and sensible.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Calcutta, 23rd March 1899.

■ — ^The Viceroy with his humble duty to your Majesty
the Queen Empress has the honour to acknowledge
the letter with which your Majesty favoured him from
Windsor Castle on 3rd March. The Viceroy cannot
fail to be extremely touched at the gracious kindness
which induces your Majesty, who has so many pre-
occupations as well as so vast a correspondence, to
write to him with your own hand. It not only sets
an example of what should be done, and can be done, in
the highest places, that is probably very rare, if not
unique, in history. But it also acts as a pemonal
stimulus to the loyal service of the favoured recipient,

352 THE MAHDrS TOMB [chap, xv

who endeavours to conform his own standard of public
duty to the exalted pattern set by his Sovereign, . , .

Lord Kitchener to Qiieen Victoria.

Headquarters, Egyptian Army, Omdurman,

March 1899. — ^Lord Kitchener presents his humble
duty to your Majesty, and begs to express his grateful
thanks for your Majesty’s most gracious letter of the
17th February.

Lord Kitchener is much distressed that your
Majesty should think that the destruction of the
Mahdi’s tomb and the disposal of the bones was im-
properly carried out. He is very sorry that anything
he has done should have caused your Majesty a
moment’s uneasiness.

A few' days after the battle I discussed with some
native officers of the Soudanese troops, and spoke on
the subject with some influential natives here ; and
they told me that, although no educated persons
believed in the Mahdi being anything but an impostor
who had attempted to change the Mohammedan
rehgion, still the ignorant people of Kordofan and
Darfur w'ould continue to believe in him as long as the
tomb remained. The Soudanese officers told me that
even some of the soldiers in our ranks stiU believed in
the Mahdi ; and [they] recommended the destruction
of the tomb, and that the bones should be thrown in
the Nile, which would entirely dissipate any such
belief. Nothing in the matter was done in a hurry ;
but four days after the battle, before Heft for Fashoda,
I gave the order for the destruction, thinking it was the
safest and wisest course, and this was carried out by
Soudanese soldiers during my absence. There was no
coffin, and when the bones were foxmd the soldiers
seemed all astonished and exclaimed, “ By God, thj s
was not the Mahdi after all he told us.” They had
previously believed that the Mahdi had been trans-
lated bodily to heaven. When I returned from
Fashoda the Mahdi’s skull in a box was brought to me,
and I did not know what to do with it. I had thought

353

1899] LORD KITCHENER’S EXPLANATION

of later sending it to the College of Surgeons, where I
believe such things are kept ; it has now been buried
in a Moslem cemetery.

Although in the first flush of victory there was no
reason to fear any serious effects from Mahdist super-
stition, still I cannot help thinldng that now, if I had
acted differently, we might have serious cause to
regret it. We are suffering here from a horrible epi-
demic of cerebral spinal meningitis amongst the
Soudanese troops, and I have already lost eighty yoxmg
black soldiers, who die in great agony, as the disease
attacks the brain. I have moved the troops out into
camp, and done all I can to prevent its spread ; but
doctors seem to know very little about it, and it is, I
am sorry to say, increasing, and has now broken out at
Khartoum as well as here. I am exceedingly fond of
my black troops ; but I fully know how hot-headed
they are and how quickly an idea may make them act
rashly. If they got it into their heads that the Mahdi
was punishing them for their action with us, the result
might be very disastrous before I could stop it. They
are behaving as they always do — splendidly ; but I am
glad the temptation and the possibility of an emissary
from the Khalifa starting such an idea amongst them
is altogether removed.

The visit of their Royal Highnesses the Duke and
Duchess of Connaught has had an excellent effect
throughout the Soudan. The troops highly appreci-
ated the Duke’s special orders to them after the review,
and it has been a source of pleasure to me that the
Duchess did not suffer from over-fatigue, and ap-
proved of the arrangements made for their Royal
Highnesses’ comfort.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Lord Kitchener.

CiMiEz, 2Uh March 1899. — The Queen Empress
thanks the Sirdar sincerely for his letter of the 7th
inst. received this morning.

She never believed that the Sirdar had given the
order for the remains of the Mahdi to be destroyed.

854 C.-IN-C. AND ARMY DISCIPLINE [chap, xv

That the tomb was destroyed she quite imderstands
was absolutely necessary. But she felt — [as to] the
destruction of the poor body of a man who, whether he
was very bad and cruel, after all was a man of a certain
importance — ^that it savours, in the Queen’s opinion, too
much of the Middle Ages not to allow his remains to be
buried in private in some spot where it would not be
considered as of any importance politically or an
object of superstition. The graves of our people
have been respected, and those of our foes should, in
her opinion, also be.

However, now she is quite satisfied, as the skull has
been buried. The Queen is grieved to hear of so much
sickness of so distressing a nature amongthc Soudanese,
which is very distressing and rather alarming. Is
there a possibility of poison accidentally or intention-
ally ?

The Duke and Duchess of Connaught returned
delighted with their expedition to Omdurman, Khar-
toum, and Atbara, both looking remarkably weU.
But they had a dreadful passage coming to Ville-
franche, and even worse, if possible, when they left
from there on the night of the 20th for Leghorn, and
were obliged to land at Genoa.

The Queen hopes the Sirdar is well and not too
much worked.

2'he Marquis of Lansdowie to the Marquis of Salisbury,
{Copy.J 2 Srd March 1S99.

Dear Lord Salisbury, — ^You will recollect that I
expressed to you my belief that in all really important
discipline cases the C.-in-C. had been fully consulted.

In order to make sure that I had not misled you, I
have selected the most troublesome discipline cases
with which we have had to deal, and verified my
statement in regard to each of them. The schedule
which I enclose with this letter will show you that I
was correct. There are nine of them, and in no single
case was there a failure to ascertain the C.-in-C,’s views.

Will you also kindly look at p. 7 of the enclosed

1899] ORDER IN COUNCIL OF 1896 355

Memo. ? You will see that in our “ Details of Office
Procedure” it is expressly laid down that all
important questions will be referred to the C.-in-C.
before submission to the S. of S.”

So far as I am^ aware, this rule has been observed,
and I should certainly support Lord Wolseley if he were
able to show that the interpretation placed upon the
word “ important ” had. not been sufficiently strict.
, . . Lansdowne.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal

ClMiEZ, 26th March 1899. — ^Directly after luncheon
saw Lord Salisbury, who has just arrived at Beaulieu.
We talked of many things, and rejoiced at the success
of the arrangement with the French, which gives us
entire possession of the valley of the Nile. He also
thought that we should come to a satisfactory arrange-
ment with Russia about the Chinese railways. He
hoped the Budget had been finally settled, and without
increasing the Income Tax, which would have been
most unpopular. I talked about the difficulties of the
Coburg succession.

He then said he had had a long conversation with
Lord Lansdowne. The latter entirely agrees with
me, but was against altering the Order in Council, as it
contained my wishes, a record of which ought to be
kept. But that there had been several instances
lately in which the C.-in-C, had been consulted, to
which I replied that he had not been consulted with re-
gard to the discipline of the Army, Also the Adjutant-
General interfered and usurped too mueh power and
authority. I knew this from Lord Wolseley himself.
I said further that if Lord Lansdowne was so positive
that the C.-in-C. had all the power which was impera-
tive for him to have, and which I was so strong aljout,
then I wished he would write it to me and put it on
record. I repeated that the C.-in-C. was responsible to
me and not to the Secretary of State, though they con-
sulted together regarding important appointments.
Equally the Secretary of State was responsible to me,

ITT — 24

356 DUKE OF CONNAUGHT AND COBURG [chap, xy

and that the Adjutant-General was under the C.-in-C.
and responsible to him and me. Lord Salisbury said
it would be better for him to write my wishes to Lord
Lansdowne, for that would come as a command and
be binding. To this I agreed.

We also talked of the C.-in-C, and of Lord Wolseley
not being an entire success. I felt the Army would
prefer a Prince, Lord Salisbury said the feeling had
all come round to that, and that he had told Lord
Lansdowne Arthur would have the next appointment
after Lord Wolseley.

Sth April , — ^After dinner I received the following
telegram from Sir Condie Stephen : “ Duke of Con-
naught has sent a telegi’am to Saxe-Coburg Minister
stating that he is now heir presumptive, and that as
such both he and his house are prepared to fulfil their
duties towards the Duchies. Duke and Duchess with
Prince Arthur will visit the Duke of Coburg on their
way to England, but questions as to education of
Prince and whether H.R.H. is to enter the German
Army still remain to be settled. Both Duke and
Duchess seem ^villing to consent to Prince’s gomg to a
German University later on,” This is a relief, but I
see many troubles yet ahead.

9th April . — Saw Lord Sahsbury. The Coburg
succession and its difficulties were gone into very fully.’-
The feeling in the Duchies must be respected, and
therefore Arthur said he is the heir, more especially
as there was great agitation and danger of William
interfering. This he has not the slightest right to do,
but he considers he ought to have been consulted,
which is not the case, as by law he has nothing what-
ever to do with the succession,

27th April . — ^At a quarter to four started with Len-
chen, Beatrice, Thora, Leopold, and the two ladies
following, the gentlemen and Sir E. Monson having pre-

' Writing to the Queen on the 26th, Lord Salisbury “ earnestly ”
advised that the Duke of Connaught “ should take no course -without
careful consideration. The matter should be put aside tUl after
your Majesty comes back; and any premature declaration is un-

1899] i^AST DRIVE ON RIVIERA SS7

ceded us, for the new bridge at the end of the Boulevard
Carabacel, which I was asked to open, The bridge was
beautifully decorated with flags and garlands. The
Maire and his Adjunct met us on arrival, the band
playing God Save the Queen, and he addressed a few
words to me, thanldng me for the honour I had con^
ferred upon the town, also presenting a most enormous
and lovely bouquet. I answered in flattering words,
“ Je suis bien touchee que vous m’avez demande
d’inaugurer votre nouveau pont, et je fais des voeux
bien sinc^res pour la prospdrit^ de la ville de Nice et de
ses environs.” Flowers were given to the Princesses.
We then drove over the bridge, the band playing the
Marseillaise. There were great crowds, who were all
most enthusiastic.

1st May. — ^Drove to Beaulieu. Had our tea at
St. Jean, where Lenchen and Beatrice joined us.
Alas ! my last charming drive in this paradise of
nature, which I grieve to leave, as I get more attached
to it every year. I shall mind returning to the sim-
less north, but I am so grateful for all I have enjoyed
here.^

Colonel Grierson to Sir Frank Lascelles.
[Copy.l Secret. Bebuk, Zrd May 1899,

Sir, — At a military inspection on the 1st May, his
Majesty the Emperor called me up and told me that,
while at the Wartburg, he had been visited by their
Royal Highnesses the Dukes of Coburg and of Con-
naught, and had had a conversation with the latter as
to the succession to the throne of Coburg-Gotha.

His Majesty’s account of this conversation in no
way differed from that which has reached your
Excellency from other sources, save that he made no
mention to me of his having uttered any threat to
bring in a Bill to prevent the succession of foreign
princes to German thrones. He merely said that he
had pointed out that German feeling would demand

* 'This was the Queen’s last visit to the French Riviera.

358 KAISER AND BRITISH POLICY [chap, xv

that the heir-apparent to the throne of Coburg should
leave the British and enter the German Army, should
have his principal residence in Germany, and should
have his son educated in that country. The same
opinion had, he said, been expressed to his Royal
Highness by the King of Saxony. If, he said, the
Duke of Connaught decided to remain a British Prince
and abrogate his claims in favour of Prince Arthur or
of the Duke of Albany, no one in Germany could be
offended by such a decision, and everyone would find
it quite natural ; but it was impossible that he could
pose as a German Prince and still hold a command in
the British Army. His Majesty expressly told me to
communicate his opinions to your Excellency, and I,
of course, made no mention of the fact that you were
already in possession of them.

After some further conversation on indifferent
subjects, his Majesty began to speak about British
policy, which he declared to be quite incomprehensible
to him. He said that for years he had been the one
true friend to Great Britain on the continent of
Europe, and had done everything to help her policy
and assist her, and that he had received nothing in
return but ingratitude, culminating in our behaviour
in the Samoan affair, which, he said, had undone all
the good he had effected in the way of cultivating
friendly relations between the two coimtries. Some
day, when it was too late, we should regret it. He had
particularly desired to be in England on her Majesty’s
birthday and present all his children to the Queen, but
that was now impossible. His consistent enemy
throughout had been Lord Salisbury, and, while the
latter remained Prime Minister, it would be impossible
for him to come to England. Formerly it was the
people of Great Britain who kept back the Govern-
ment from war, now it was the Government which
was holding back the people. The City and Mr.
Chamberlain were all for war. They had failed to get
war with France, and now they wanted war with
Germany, which would be an easier thing for them, as

1899] ilANDOM ACCUSATIONS 359

she had fewer ships than France. From the above,
your Excellency will not fail to see that his Majesty
was talking somewhat at random, for, by his own
statement, his “ enemy ” Lord Salisbury was keeping
back the people from making war on Germany I He
appeared also to separate Mr. Chamberlain’s action
from that of the Government, but your Excellency is
well aware what a strong prejudice the Emperor
cherishes against that gentleman.

One thing, however, said his Majesby, he was
resolved to hold to and carry through, and that was
his arrangement with ‘Mr. Rhodes as to African
affairs. The latter was, he declared, “ furious ” at the
turn affairs in general had taken, and from these
remarks I gathered, though he did not say so, that he
was in direct communication with Mr. Rhodes.

His Majesty’s tone throughout this conversation
was calm and dispassionate, and he greeted and dis-
missed me in the most friendly manner. I have, etc.,
J. M. Grierson, Lt.-Col. and Military Attache.^

1 Sir Frank Laseelles forwarded this secret report by Colonel Grierson
in a private letter to Lord Salisbury, who submitted it to the Queen.
In his covering letter Sir Frank wrote : “ I suspect that a great deal of
his Majesty’s Ol-humour is due to the fact that he was not allowed to
carry out his cherished scheme of presenting his younger children to
the Queen on the occasion of her eightieth birthday. He was bitterly
disappointed at being told he was not to go to England for the birthday.
... I talked to Billow yesterday about the Emperor’s language to
Grierson, and evidently embarrassed him a good deal by doing so. . . .
He said that it was not for him to criticise in any way the language of
his sovereign, but I, who knew the Emperor so well, must know that
his Majesty’s impetuosity sometimes led to exaggeration of expression.
He himself was convinced of the necessity for Germany of good relations
with England, and he could assure me that this policy liad the complete
support and approval of the Emperor. . . . Ills Majesty Avas in fact
more than half an Englishman, and was extraordinarily sensitive
to anj-thing which he could regard as a slight either from the Royal
Family or from her Majesty’s Government. I said that I had noticed
that the Emperor seemed more apt to take offence where none certainly
was intended, during tlie time of the Queen’s annual visits to the South
of France, and it was to be hoped that now that her Majesty had
returned to Flngland, the Emperor would have become less sensitive.
I had heard indirectly that the Prince of Wales, in passing through
Paris, had said that the Emperor was expected at Cowes this year.
Billow replied tliat at present his Majesty had no intention of visiting
England this vear. If the Samoan question were satisfactorily settled,

360

THE QUEEN’S EYESIGHT

[chap. XV

[Telegramme.] President Loubet to Queen Victoria.

Paris Elys^ie, 5 Mai 1899. — II m’est particulie-
rement agreable d’apprendre que votre Majeste veut
bien se montrer satisfaite de son sejour en France.
Elle pent etre assureequ’onyseratoujoursheureux de
lui reserver le meme accueil. Emile Loubet.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, Qih May 1899. — ^Arthur and
Louischcn with their two girls arrived and had tea
with us. Had a long talk about the most vexed and
difficult question of Coburg. William has been tire-
some and has interfered. The real difficulty is young
Arthur, and the feeling in Germany that they do not
wish to have anyone who is not brought up there.
Arthur himself is, of course, out of the question, as he
would not give up his career here, and I certainly
would not allow it. Young Arthur cannot renormce
his claims till he is twenty-one, which he then is sure
to do. In the meantime it is quite impossible to take
him away from his English education for an improb-
able eventuality. Saw Lord Salisbury before dinner.
Talked also to him a great deal about Coburg and
William’s threats, which I refrain from entering
into.

7ih May. — ^Bertie came to see me and remained
some time, staying for luncheon, to which young
Arthur and Charlie also came. Afterwards Lenchen
brought Professor Pagenstecher, the famous German
oculist, who is staying at Cumberland Lodge. He
said he found my eyes no worse, in fact rather better,
which is a great encouragement. I again saw Lord
Salisbury. Went over much the same ground as
yesterday. He was most kind and concerned about
all my worries.

it might be possible that his Majesty might alter his decision. . . .
It ■would give greater satisfaction to German puhUo opinion, if, when
the time came when the Emperor cmdd again go to England, the
Queen could receive his Majestv at Windsor rather than at Cowes.”

1899] FRENCH PEOPLE iVND THE QUEEN

361

The Marquis of Lansdoxone to Queen Victoria.

Wae Office, 8th May 1899. — Lord Lansdownc
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he has the
honour to submit to your Majesty a memorandum
which he has prepared upon the position of the
Commander-in-Chief under your Majesty’s Orders in
Council of 1895 and 1899.

He trusts that the memorandum may reassure
your Majesty, and that it will show that he has
endeavoured to carry out loyally the arrangements
sanctioned by your Majesty in these Orders.

A copy of the memorandum will remain in the
possession of the Permanent Under-Secretary for the
information and guidance of Lord Lansdowne’s suc-
cessor and of all concerned.

Sir Edmund Monson to the Marquis of Salisbury}

Pams, dth May 1899,

My Loed, — ^Your Lordship’s presence in the South
of France during a considerable portion of the period
spent by the Queen at Cimiez will have enabled you
to judge of the warmth and enthusiasm of the recep-
tion locally given to her Majesty ; the external
demonstrations of which have been, I think, more
marked than ever before.

But there is no doubt also that the annual visit of
the Queen to the Riviera has come to be regarded in
France as an outward and visible sign of the friendly
sentiments entertained by her Majesty for the French
people ; and upon the last occasion, following as it did
upon a season of somewhat strained relations between
the two Governments, it has been hailed with peculiar
pleasure throughout the country by a population
which at heart has no other desire than to live in
peace and amity with a great and powerful neighbour.

It is, moreover, the simplest truism to say that,
whatever may be the condition of the official relations

' Submitted by Lord Salbbury to the Queen.

SS2 TRANSVAAL UITLANDERS— PETITION [chap, xv

between the two Governments, the veneration and
respect entertained by Frenchmen towards the Queen
of England are never affected or prejudiced thereby.

I have the honour to be, -with the highest respect,
my Lord, your Lordship’s most obedient humble
servant, Edmund Monson.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

loth May 1890. — ^This is the Petition to your
Majesty from the Transvaal Uitlanders. It bears
21,684 signatures, which have not been sent, as they
would make the Petition so bulky. It certainly is a
powerful indictment against the Boer Government.
Promises made after the Jameson Raid have never
been fulfilled : there is no liberty of the Press ;
British subjects can be expelled at the will of the
President ; the Uitlanders, who are more than twenty
times more numerous than the Boers [? in Johannes-
burg], are overtaxed, and have practically no voice in
municipal government; they are not allowed to
meet together, or even to present petitions ; the police
are entirely composed of Boers, and behave in the most
arbitrary and indeed oppressive manner, and are
responsible for the murder of one British subject. . . .

{Same day.] — This despatch is a reply to the Uit-
landers’ Petition to your Majesty. It fully recapitu-
lates their grievances, and points out how, if not in the
letter in the spirit, the Convention of 1884 has been
disregarded.

It proposes that Sir A. Milner and President
Kruger should meet and discuss the situation in a
conciliatory spirit in hopes of coming to a just agree-
ment as to the demands of the Uitlanders.

EAr act from the Queen's Journal.

WiNDsoK Castle, l^th May 1899. — Went out
with Arthur, who talked much about the Coburg
succession. He had seen Sir Condie Stephen, and
found him very reasonable. Arthur and Louischen

863

1899] QUEEN’S MEMO. ON WAR OFFICE

left after luncheon. I then saw Sir Condie Stephen,
who much regretted the decision Arthur has come to,
to renounce for his son, before he comes of age,
though he quite understands the difficulties which
necessitated this step. He laid great stress on a very
conciliatory tone being adopted towards poor Affie,
who had been so anxious for young Arthur to go to
Coburg ; also that William, who has really nothing to
do with it, should be informed, before anything is
made known, so as to ensure his support in any
technical difficulties that may arise.

[Copy.] Memorandum hy Queen Victoria.

Windsor Castle, 15th May 1899. — On the 24th
August 1895, Lord Lansdowne, replying to the Queen,
wrote :

“ I concur with her Majesty in believing that the
new arrangements should not be made too rigid at
first, and I think it highly probable that parts of the
machine may require readjustment after we have had
a little experience of its working.”

On this imderstanding, and with nearly foin years’
experience of the working of the new system, the
Queen was strongly of opinion that so far as concerned
the discipline of the Army, the Order in Council of
1895 needed reconsideration.

Previous to 1895, although the Adjutant-General
was “ responsible for the discipline of the Army,” he
was primarily responsible to the Commander-in-Chief,
so that the discipline was practically vested in the
latter, and all orders issued or decisions arrived at
upon questions of discipline were in his name and
under his authority. But by the Order in Council of
1895, the Commander-in-Chief was relieved of this
responsibility, with the result that now it rests upon
the judgment of the Adjutant- General to decide to
what extent the Commander-in-Chief is informed or
consulted respecting discipline, which is not a “ deyart-
ment ” but the essential principle of the vitality of the
Army. For although by the Order in Council the

864 QUEEN AND POST OF C.-IN-C. [chap, xv

Commander-in- Chief is “ the principal adviser of the
Secretary of State ” ; “ exercises general command ”
and is “ charged with general supervision of the mili-
tary departments of the W.O.,” the Adjutant-
General “ is charged with the discipline of the Army”
and “ will advise the Secretary of State on all questions
connected with the duties of his Department.”

The unfortunate results of this attempt to elimin-
ate the question of discipline from that of “ general
command,” and the certainty of its failure in time of
war liave been seriously represented to the Queen by
the Commandcr-in- Chief. With a view of remedying
this defect Lord Wolseley suggested an alteration in
the Order in Council by which the Commander-in-
Chief woidd be “ vested with the general command
and discipline of the military forces.”

The Queen, being deeply impressed with the
anomalous situation which has been thus created, and
fully appreciating the grave importance of the above
evidence of her Commander-in-Chief, whom she recog-
nises as the responsible executive chief of the Army,
felt constramed to appeal to the Prime Minister to
rectify, if possible, what appeared to her Majesty an
important defect in Army administration.

Accordingly, on 4<th March the Queen urged that
the Order in Council should be amended so as to make
it perfectly clear that the responsibility for the
discipline of the Army is absolutely in the hands of
the Commandcr-in-Chief and not in those of the
Adjutant-General. In reply. Lord Salisbury, on the
5th of March, pointed out that Lord Lansdowne had
a very strong objection to any such alteration ; he
thought the Order in Coimcil was misunderstood, and
that Lord Lansdowne was disposed to assent to draw-
ing up some declaration explaining more clearly its
real meaning. Further explanations and discussions
took place, followed by Lord Lansdowne’s memoran-
dmn of the 8th of May.

But the Queen has been unable to modify her views
upon this important subject. Her Majesty will, how-

1899] H0LI{:AII and viceroy 305

ever, no longer press these, but desires that this mem-
orandum may be officially recorded at the War Office

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 18 lk May 1899. — ^Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully acknowledges the
two letters written to him by your Majesty, together
with the enclosures, which he returns.

He had already had communication with Inrd
George upon this matter of Holkar ^ : ho is very glad
that it has been settled without resort to any strong
measures. He will speak to Lord George and ask him
to impress due circumspection and moderation upon
the Viceroy in dealing with such matters. It is a
subject of the greatest delicacy and difficulty. On
our side it is very important not to interfere with the
freedom of the Princes in governing their own domin-
ions. On the other hand, they are sometimes unfit
to exercise the autocratic power they possess ; and
are guilty of gi’eat cruelty and serious crime. The last
notable instance was that of the Gaekwar, w'hom Lord
Northbrook found it necessary to depose in 1875.
Lord Salisbury did riot form a high opinion of Holkar
when he was here in 1887.

Nothing could have been more shocldng than Lord
Strafford’s sudden death ® ; and poor Lady Strafford !

Lord Salisbury trusts that yesterday’s ceremony
which was very successful and impressive, has not
seriously fatigued your Majesty.

1 This memorandum was apparently first submitted to Lord
Salisbury, who was attacked by influenza, and unable for several days
to consider it. See below, pp. 367 and 375.

“ See below, p. 386.

® He feU off a railway platform in front of an express train and was
killed. The Queen wrote in her Journal on 17tli May :

“ I was greatly shocked and grieved. He had been so long with
me, ns he originally entered my service sixty years ago as page. He
resigned when he became sixteen, and in later years entered my service,
first as Groom and then as Equerry. He was so devoted to me, and
never happier than when he was in waiting.”

The Queen laid the foundation-stone of the Victoria and Albert

ivti’ “iim.

866

DAILY PAPERS— SUNDAY ISSUE [chap, xv

Archbisho'p Temple to Queen Victoria.

Lambeth Palace, IMh May 1899. — ^The Arch-
bishop of Canterbury presents his duty to the Queen
and begs leave to bring to her Majesty’s notice the
mischief that is likely to follow if the leading daily
papers are induced by the stress of competition with
one another to include a Sunday issue in their regular
publications.’- It is not possible to doubt that it will
in the end greatly add to Sunday labour. The writing
and printing of Sunday newspapers may no doubt be
so arranged as to throw the additional labour on the
Saturday, But the distributors, whether shop men
or paper boys, will certainly have to do their work on
Sunday, and the number of these is very considerable.

It is thought that if your Majesty could allow it to
be understood that it would give your Majesty pleasure
to hear that some way had been found to avoid causing
this serious inroad on the day of rest, the proposal
would be modified or abandoned.

Should your Majesty desire to see the Archbishop
on the subject, that he might answer any question or
give any further information, the Archbishop will of
course be ready to wait on your Majesty for that
purpose.

The Archbi'shop is your Majesty’s most faithful
and devoted servant.

Bishop Davidson to Queen Victoria.

Windsor Castle, 20ih May 1809.

Madam, — ^I return herewith to your Majesty with
my humble duty the letter from the Archbishop which
your Majesty has been good enough to let me read.
In the short conversation your Majesty was good
enough to allow me last night I perhaps failed to make
clear the point on which your Majesty asked my
opinion. There is, I think, a marked difference be-
tween the expression by your Majesty of a wish that

‘ This -vvas done by the Daily Telegraph and the Daily Mail, but
public opinion -w-as so strong against seven-day journalism that the
practice -was soon abandoned.

367

1899] LORD SALISBURY’S ADVICE

the seven-day newspaper should be discontinued, and,
on the other hand, the allowing it to be stated through
some suitable channel that if the seven-day publica-
tion were, by the proprietors’ action, to have ceased,
your Majesty would rejoice to know that a step had
been taken so markedly in accord with the best public
opinion.

I believe it to be true that the promoters of the
new seven-day plan would thenaselves not be sorry
to have the way made easy for withdrawal.

With apologies to your Majesty for this further
intrusion upon a very difficult but most important
matter, I have the honour to be, your Majesty’s
obedient humble servant, Randall Winton.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

21st May 1899. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty much regrets that he is tmable to obey your
Majesty’s commands to-morrow j but he has foimd
by experience that, if he travels with a bad cough, it
brings on influenza, which may lay him up for some
time. Lady Salisbury also has a very bad cough.
He has therefore trusted to your Majesty’s kindness to
excuse him.

He respectfully sends back the letters of the
Archbishop and the Bishop of Winchester, with a
memorandum expressing the counsel which he should
be disposed to give to your Majesty on this matter.

Memorandum by the Marquis of Salisbury,

[21sf May 1899.] — ^These letters ^ advise your
Majesty to let it be known that you wish the Simday
issue of leading newspapers to be abandoned.

I wish to pay full homage to the excellent motives
which have induced these Prelates to approach your
Majesty on the question. But it must be remembered
that it is a question of controversy. The whole
question of Sabbath observance, of which this forms

‘ The letters of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishop of
Winchester, printed above.

368 OBSERVANCE OF SUNDAY [chap, xv

a part, greatly divides your Majesty’s subjects. The
upper class and the lower class are in the main averse
to a rigid observance of the Sunday : the middle class
support it. There can be no doubt that during the
last half-century the rigid party have become much
smaller. Thirty years ago the Bishops made a very
earnest effort to prevent Sunday trains, especially
excursion trains. But they failed. The movement
was too strong for them ; and Sunday excursion trains
arc now very common. About forty years ago there
was a strong attempt made to prevent the sale of
articles of food on Sunday morning. Lord Robert
Grosvenor passed a Bill through the House of Com-
mons with this object. But the lower classes were so
angry that they assembled in Hyde Park and pelted
all the carriages and horsemen that were in the park
on Sunday afternoon. The Bill had to be withdrawn.

I have cited these two cases to show that there are
two strong currents of opinion ; and the action which
yoiu’ Majesty is urged to pursue amounts to taking
sides in a popular dispute. This is directly contrary
to your Majesty’s usual practice ; and it would be
attended with many inconveniences.

Sunday newspapers exist in this country already,
and have a vast circulation. Whatever evil is sup-
posed to attach to the new Sunday issues must attach
to those which exist now, and have existed for a long
time. People have tried to draw a distinction be-
tween Stmday newspapers having the same name
as weekday newspapers, and those which have a
special name of their own. But this distinction is too
absurd to be maintained. If it is known that your
Majesty’s vast social influence is being exerted against
Sunday newspapers of any sort, it will be taken as a
pronouncement against them altogether. By their
vast numbers they are evidently a luxury valued by
the lower classes. If these classes learn that high
social influences are directed against them, they may
ask, as they did m the time of Lord Robert Grosvenor,
whether the practice of the upper classes generally is

1899] QUEEN ON SABBATARIANISM 3G9

such as would justify them in taking a rigid line upon
this subject.

If such a controversy were to arise, it would not be
very delicately conducted ; and I should dread to sec
your Majesty’s name mixed up with it. Perhaps so
unfortunate a contingency is not very probable, but
it is sufiBciently possifle to make it more expedient to
leave the matter alone, as it does not fall within the
ordinary range of your Majesty’s duties.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Salisbury,
[Copy.l Windsor Castij 3, 22nd May 1899.

Mv DEAR Lord Salisbury, — ^The Queen wishes
me to write to you respecting your memorandum on
the letters of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the
Bishop of Winchester with regard to the question of
seven-day newspapers.

Her Majesty is anxious to point out that the
objections on the part of herself and these two Prelates
are not based upon Sabbatarian considerations ; but
because a newspaper with a daily issue for seven days
in the week must entail both undue work and loss of
relaxation upon the whole of its staff and also upon
those employed in its distribution.

As I think you know, her Majesty’s views axe
entirely opposed to those held by the “ rigid ” school,
and neither her Majesty nor the Bishop of Winchester,
with the latter of whom I have discussed the matter,
wish to do away with Sunday newspapers as they now
exist. But the Queen thought that without express-
ing any “ wish ” on the subject, a commimication
might be made to the effect that : “ Her Majesty was
glad to hear that the proposed extension from a six to
seven days’ issue of certain London newspapers had
been abandoned, as her Majesty felt that this decision
on the part of the respective proprietors was in con-
sonance with the majority of public opinion.”

If, however, you still think the Queen had better
hold aloof from the question, I feel sure her Majesty
will abide by your counsel. Yours, Arthur Bigge.

870

SUNDAY ISSUE, EXTRA WORK? [chaf. xv

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Hatpieud, 23rd May 1899.

My dear Sir Arthur, — I am still laid up with my
cold, and am therefore obliged to write to you by
another hand. I have just received your letter of
yesterday with reference to seven-day newspapers.

The point on which her Majesty relies, that the
Sunday newspaper would involve seven days’ work or
an increase of work for the staff of the weekday
newspaper, is so strongly denied by those interested
in the matter, that I think it would not be wise for her
Majesty to become involved in any degree in this
controversy,

I am informed on good authority that the staff of
the newspaper in question ^ categorically deny that
their labour has increased, and state that, by the
arrangements made, their work has been diminished
rather than increased.

The amount of work created by an additional
Sunday paper for the newsvendors and so forth, if
they are already open on Sunday for the sale of other
papers, is so slight as not to be worth her Majesty’s
intervention.

Her Majesty should remember that, though those
who are approaching her on this subject are men of
moderate ideas, there is a huge fanatical body behind
them, who would take matters into their own hands if
they could say that the Queen was supporting them ;
I think therefore that in a question upon which people
are so susceptible and so unreasonable, the Queen
would do wisely in adhering to her usual rule not to
interfere. Youi's very truly, Salisbury.

[2'elegram.] Sir Alfred Milner to Mr, Chamberlain,

23rd May 1899. — I have received following from
her Majesty’s Ministers of Colony of the Cape of Good
Hope. Speaking on behalf of all her subjects in that
Colony without distinction of party, creed, race, or
^ The Daily Telegraph,

371

1899] QUEEN’S EIGHTIETH BIRTHDAY

colour, [they] unite with unnumbered millions through-
out her Majesty’s Empire in every land in an utterance
of devout thanksgiving upon the ever memorable
occasion when her Gracious Majesty attains the grand
tale of eighty noble years, and beg to add a humble
expression of earnest hope that Providence may long
bless her Empire, and the world, by her benign and
illustrious reign.

Extract from the Queen‘s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 2Uh May 1899.— On this event-
ful day, when I have become eighty years old, I must
express one word of deep gratitude to God for having
preserved me so long to my dear children, all ray
friends, and the whole nation, which has come forward
with the greatest affection and loyalty ; I am deeply
touched. May God still mercifully preserve me to
work for the good of my coimtry !

Beatrice came in early with a beautifully sweet
nosegay, and then fetched darling little Elisabeth to
wish me many happy returns of the day. I got up
almost directly afterwards and dressed, then went
into the Audience-room, where all my beautiful
presents were arranged. All my children, including
dear Vicky, joined in giving me three very handsome
silver candelabras for the Durbar-room at Osborne.
Bertie’s children, including Georgie and May, gave me
two large silver jugs and fruit bowls, also for the
Durbar-room. George C. gave me a beautiful minia-
ture of George III set in diamonds, which had
belonged to one of his aunts. I also received presents
from the different members of my Household, and
personal friends, including a very interesting minia-
ture of Prince Charles Edward from Lord Rosebery,
and a box from Mr. Brett, ^ made out of one of the
original timbers in the roof of Westminster Hall, of
the time of William Rufus 1099.

1 Then Secretary of the Office of Works ; afterwards the 2nd
Viscount Esher, and joint Editor of The Letters of Queen Victoria,
Eirst Series,
nr — 25

m COUNTLESS LETTERS AND TELEGRAMS [chap, xv

During breakfast, which we took all together in the
Oak-room, the Eton and Windsor Madrigal Society,
the Windsor Choral Society, and the choirs of St.
George’s and Eton Chapel brought me a Serenade.
The Eton volunteers and boys were present, and
cheered loudly. I gave souvenirs to all my children,
and also to my ladies and gentlemen and personal
servants. In the Corridor I received in succession : a
bouquet, in the shape of a harp, from Lady Edward
Churchill, representing the Madrigal Society ; a bouquet
from the officers of the 1st Life Guards presented by
Colonel Miles, and one of eighty roses tied with the
regimental colours, presented by Colonel Inigo Jones
on behalf of the officers of the Scots Guards. Baron
Reischach brought me lovely flowers from dear Vicky.
After this I received the Mayor of Windsor, whom I
knighted, Sir Walter Parratt, the Provost of Eton,
Dr. Warre, and Mr. Arthur Benson.^ I then went to
the -window in the Oak-room to see the Eton boys
march away.

Went out at twelve in my pony chair with
Beatrice and Affie, and went below the terrace facing
the big lawn and saw the Scots Guards, who had
previously fired a Feu de Joie, march past. Arthur
marched at their head, as Colonel-in-Chief. I then
planted a tree, most of the family being there, and
took a turn with Beatrice and some of the others.

Quite overpowered with letters and, above all,
telegrams, of which between two and three thousand
have been received, many more than at the Jubilee.
Bertie, Alix, and Victoria arrived shortly before two
and came at once to see me. George C., Louise, and
Macduff also came to luncheon, as well as the family
in the house. The band of the Scots Guards played
during limcheon, I afterwards received the Windsor
Warrant Holders, who presented me with a beautiful
basket of flowers. I have received many from

‘ Son of Archbishop Benson, and joint Editor of The Letters of Queen
Victoria, First Series ; afterwards Master of Magdalene College,
Cambridge.

X899] PERFORMANCE OF LOHENGRIN 873

various Mnd people, including Lady Rothschild, Soon
after this, Georgia and May came with their two little
boys, who gave me a bouquet.

Drove out about five, with Alix and Beatrice, down
the hill, which was densely crowded, through a
beautiful arch covered with flowers. The enthusiasm
of the people was tremendous and most touching.
The town was beautifully decorated. Drove across
the Long Walk straight to the Mausoleum, where I got
out and placed one of my nosegays at the foot of the
dear tomb. How much my dear Albeit would have
rejoiced to see all these marks of love and loyalty 1
Back again through the town and through the arch.
Had tea on coming home. A family dinner, viz.
Bertie, Alix and Victoria, Ernie and Ducky Affie,
Arthur and Louischen, Lenchen and Christian and
their three children, Louise and Lome, Georgie and
May, and Helen The other younger members of the
family joined us after dinner. I wore one of my
Jubilee dresses, embroidered with silver, and the
diamond chain given me by my children.

A httle after nine we all went to the Waterloo
Gallery, which was arranged as a theatre, and had the
first, third, and last acts of Wagner’s Lohengrin per-
formed. The caste was as follows : Jean de Reszke
(Lohengrin), Edouard de Reszke (Heinrich der Vogler),
Mr. Bispham (Telramund), Mine Nordica (Elsa),
Ortrud, who had very little to do, being represented
by Frau Schuman Heinck. I was simply enchanted.
It is the most glorious composition, so poetic, so
dramatic, and one might almost say, religious in feel-
ing and full of sadness, pathos, and tenderness. The
singing of the two brothers was beyond praise. Jean
looked so handsome in his white attire, armour, and
helmet, and the electric light was turned strong upon
him, so that he seemed surrounded by a halo. The
whole opera produced a great impression on me.
Edouard de Reszke was magnificent as Heinrich der

1 The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Hesse.

The Duchess of Albany.

374 LORD ROSEBERY’S CONGRATULATIONS [chap, xv

Vogler. Bertie said he had never heard a better
performance. It was a fine ending to this memorable
day.

The Earl of Rosebery to Queen Victoria.

DtiRDANS, May 1899.

Madam, — I have the honour to acknowledge with
my humble duty the gracious letter which I have just
received from your Majesty.

I cannot express how touched and gratified I am
by the fact of your Majesty’s finding time to write to
me at a moment so crowded and occupied, and to make
yourself acquainted with the very inadequate words
that I uttered in proposing your Majesty’s health at
the dinner of last Wednesday.

It would have taken me much longer than the
time limit to which I was restricted to express to your
Majesty the debt of gratitude and affection which we
all owe to your Majesty. That your Majesty has
preserved and established the throne, threatened by
so much, and has extended and cemented the Empire,
and has established a personal sovereignty over the
sympathies and intelligence of the human race is to
express that debt very feebly. The emotion with
which the people say, “ The Queen, God bless her,”
says much more than this, and is the truest tribute
to your Majesty, though one that your Majesty can
never yourself hear.

I am emboldened by your Majesty’s constant good-
ness to ask a great favour. Some years ago I pur-
chased a locket surmounted by the British crown,
which I have always kept in order to put in it some
relic of your Majesty. If your Majesty would deign to
send me a tiny lock of your hair to put in it, I should
be more than grateful. I should not have dared to ask
for such a thing had hot your Majesty granted this
favour to my second daughter. But if I am asking
too much, or what it is presumptuous for me to ask, I
woMd beg your Majesty to pardon me, and forget my
petition in silence. In any case, I am always your
Majesty’s devoted servant and subject, Rosebery.

1899] LONG LETTER FROM THE KAISER

875

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Foreign OrncE, 29//t May 1899.

My DEAR Sir Arthur, — I am sorry that a recur-
rence of this tiresome influenza has prevented me from
giving an earlier attention to her Majesty’s commands.

I have no objection whatever to make to her
Majesty’s intention of sending the proposed memo-
randum ^ to Lord Lansdowne. I have failed in my
efforts to impress either upon II.M. or upon Lord
Lansdowne that their difference of view turns rather
upon questions of wording than of essence, and that
the difference has little substantial existence. I am
afraid I should not pursue the question further to
any advantage. Yours very truly, Salisbury.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Cassel, 2,7th May 1899.

Dearest Grandmama, — ^Your kind letter of the
18th of this month arrived on the 20th. The news
concerning the rumours said to be circulating in Ger-
many which gave you offence astonished me to the
utmost, as I never heard anything of them. I im-
mediately conferred with my Minister for Foreign
Affairs, and had the whole of the German newspaper
articles investigated which had appeared since my
return from the Mediterranean ; and also caused most
searching enquiries to be made in the Berlin society as
well as in the circles of the Southern Courts. The
result of all these investigations was that no such
rumours have circulated anywhere that people here
were astonished at you not having invited me to Cowes
this year, and that no such articles have been written
in the German papers or even hinted at the question.
I therefore am inclined to suppose that your informant

* See above, p. 363. Lord Lansdowne, in acknowledging on 5th June
receipt of Uie Queen’s memorandum, states that “ he will not fail,
in accordance with your Majesty’s commands, to place your Majesty’s
memorandum on record in the War Ofllce. It appears to him, if he
may be allowed to say so, to state the opinions which your Majesty
has tluwughout held upon this dilHcult question with great force and

876 KAISER ON SAMOAN QUESTION [chap, sv

must have made some extraordinary mistake, or that
he is not quite au fait with what is happening in Ger-
many, Consequently, I am most happy to be able to
allay your fears as to the possibility of misunderstand-
ings arising between the two countries out of these
utterly unfounded rumours.

But, on the other hand, I think it my duty to
point out that public feeling over here has been very
much agitated and stirred to its depths by the most
unhappy way in which Lord Salisbury has treated
Germany in the Samoan business. After we had
formed the South African agreement, which I settled
very much against the will of our Colonial circles, the
people in Germany thought that a new base had been
laid for mutual understanding and goodwill in foreign
and colonial questions. Then came our military
demonstrations on the Waterloo Place in Hanover for
the victors of Omdurman, which was a sign of the
warm interest taken by our army in the deeds of their
British brothers-in-arms. My visit to Malta, as alas !
I could not extend my journey to Egypt, was a sign
of affectionate interest in yoru Fleet and your Flag, of
which I am so proud to be an Admiral, And last, not
least, with an utter disregard for pubhc opinion,
which was very sore about this, and in the teeth of a
most violent opposition from all ranks of society in
Germany, I received Mr. Cecil Rhodes — only showing
thereby that I thought it my duty to do all in my power
to help your Government in the work of peace and
goodwill for the benefit of my country.

As a rmdu for all this Lord Salisbury has treated
Germany in the Samoan question in a way which was
utterly at variance with the manners which regulate
the relations between great Powers according to
European rules of civility. He not only left my
Government for months without an answer to its
proposals, dating from autumn last year, but he even
refrained from expressing his or the Government’s
regret after the first acts of violence by Commander
Sturdee and the other ships had occurred at Samoa,

1899] S'lHOIvG ATTACK ON LORD SALISBURY 877

A fact the more unintelligible, as the President of the
XJ.S.A. immediately sent word to say how sorry he
was such acts had happened on the part of American
officers and men. On the contrary, the British ships
went on for days and weeks bombarding so-called
“ positions ” of so-called “ rebels,” though no one
knows against whom they “ rebelled,” and thereby
burning and destroying plantations and houses belong-
ing to my subjects, with a loss of hundreds of thousands
of marks, without even so much as an excuse having
been made, and that on an island which by three-
fourths is in German hands.

This way of treating Germany’s feelings and in-
terests has come upon the people like an electric shock,
and has evoked the impression that Lord Salisbury
cares for us no more than for Portugal, Chile, or the
Patagonians, and out of this impression the feeling
has arisen that Germany was being despised by his
Government, and this has stung my subjects to the
quick. This fact is looked upon as a taint to the
national honour and to their feelings of self-respect.

Therefore, I am most sorry to have to state that
popular feeling in Germany is just now very bitter on
England, and as I found out during my spring visit
to the south of Germany, that feeling is the same with
the simple labourer as with their princes — ^it is unani-
mous. Most disheartening for my honest labours to
bring the two countries to understand each other
better. If this sort of high-handed treatment of
German affairs by Lord Salisbury’s Government is
suffered to continue, I am afraid that there will be
a permanent source of misunderstandings and re-
criminations between the two nations, which may
in the end lead to bad blood.

I, of course, have been silent as to what I have
personally gone through these last six months, the
shame and pain I have suffered, and how my heart has
bled when to my despair I had to watch how the
arduous work of years was destroyed, to make the two
nations understand each other and respect their aspira-

878 GERMAN ANNOYANCE [chap, xv

tions and wishes, by one blow by the high-handed
and disdainful treatment of Ministers who have never
come over to stay here and to study our institutions
and people, and hardly ever have given themselves
the trouble to understand them. Lord Salisbury’s
Government must learn to respect and treat us as
equals ; as long as he cannot be brought to do that,
people over here will remain distrustful, and a sort of
coolness will be the unavoidable result.

It is very probable that the news of the dissatisfac-
tion over here with regard to the Samoan affairs may
have reached your informant in a roundabout way, and
led him to believe it had to do with the visit to Cowes,
but that is not the case. What a great pity it is that
you could not pass by Strasburg, or any other station
where I could have met you, and had a quiet talk
with you in your carriage, about all this grievous mess 1
Now you will understand, dear Grandmama, why I so
ardently hoped to be able to go over for your birthday.
That visit would have been perfectly understood over
here, as the duty of the grandson to his grandmother,
putting “ Emperor,” etc., apart, as according to the
family ties ; and nobody would have said a word
against it. The more so as the children were to be
shown to their Great-grandmama. But a pleasure
trip to Cowes, after all that has happened, and with
respect to the temperature of our public opinion here,
is utterly impossible now. I had not the heart to
write about all these disagreeable matters to you, as I
did not want to worry you, and because I hoped that
Lord Salisbury would change his mind again, and
therefore gulped everything down and held my
tongue. But as you have yourself kindly enquired
about the state of public opinion in Germany, I
thought it my duty to state the facts as they are, I
can assure you there is no man more deeply grieved
and unhappy than me ! and all that on account of a
stupid island which is a hairpin to England compared
to the thousands of square miles she is annexing right
and left imopposed every year.

1899] QUEEN’S DIGNIFIED ANSWER 381

proposal was accepted, and we appointed our Com-
missioner. He desired that its decisions should not
be valid unless they were unanimous. Both the
British and the American Governments were strongly
opposed to this course, but they gave way to the
Glerman Emperor. He wished the Consul to be re-
called. We could not accept this proposal, as it
would have involved a condemnation of our Consul,
who was not in the wrong. But we agreed that the
authority of the Consul should be entirely superseded,
and placed in the hands of the Commission.

In everything, therefore, the Emperor has had his
way, and it is quite unintelligible to me on what grounds
he can maintain that our action in regard to Samoa has
beeninany sense unfriendly to the German Government.

Extract from the Queen^s Journal.

Balmoral, 5th June 1899. — Read a despatch from
Sir F. Lascelles,^ giving an extraordinary accoimt of
William’s impertinent and outrageous language, in'
the course of a conversation relating to England.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the German Emperor.

Baiaiobai, CASTI.E, 12th June 1899.

Dear William, — thank you for your letters
which Uncle Arthur sent me.

With regard to Coburg I think and hope every-
thing is hkely to be settled to the satisfaction of the
family and the Duchies.

Your other letter, I must say, has greatly astonished
me. The tone in which you write about Lord Salis-
bury I can only attribute to a temporary irritation on
your part, as I do not think you would otherwise have
written in such a manner, and I doubt whether any
Sovereign ever wrote in such terms to another
Sovereign, and that Sovereign his own Grandmother,
about their Prime Minister. I never should do such
a thing, and I never personally attacked or com-
plained of Prince Bismarck, though I knew well what

1 Perhaps the despatch enclosing Colonel Grierson’s report. See
above, p. 859.

8d4

DUKE OF ALBANY AND COBURG [chap, xv

The Marqids of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

20th June 1899. — ^Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty respectfully submits that a Cabinet Council was
held to-day. Except some consultation with respect to
Bills that are before the House, the Cabinet was exclu-
sively occupied with the Transvaal question. The
opinion rather prevailed that the Boers were less reso-
lute than they had been, and that some moderate con-
cessions might be expected. But it was thought better
to take the steps necessary for putting our forces into
a state of full efficiency in South Africa by supplying
transport and munitions of war. The War Secretary
gave a list of the steps necessary for this purpose, and
they were discussed and approved of by the Cabinet.
It was resolved that the moment had not come for
sending reinforcements; 'but that for the present quieter
preparations should be pushed forward ; while the
same demands as heretofore should continue to be made
in our communications with the Transvaal Republic,
No other matter was considered by the Cabinet.

Ecctracts from the Queen’s Journal,

VViNDSOK Castle, 2drdJtme 1899. — ^After luncheon
saw Sir Condie Stephen, who had just arrived, and
who was very anxious to see me, as Minister von
Strenge wanted to return to Coburg, and wished me
to know the result of his interview with Helen. Sir
Condie Stephen read the draft of Arthur’s renunciation
for himself and his son, signed by him and George
C[arabridge], who acts as guardian for young Arthur, in
which there is an important reservation, that in ease
Charlie should have no son or die unmarried, the
succession would revert to young Arthur and a son
of his . It has also been agreed that Helen, as guardian
of her son, may call in her cousin Prince Wied for
advice. Ernie Hohenlohe is to be co -guardian in the
Duchies . Poor Helen has been greatly agitated in the
settling of the details, but the principal thing is, that
she need not be separated from her son.

1899] THE DREYFUS AFFAIR 385

24ith June . — ^After luncheon again saw Sir Condic
Stephen, and after speaking with me for a while he
brought in Herr von Strenge. Herr von Strenge
spoke of his conversations and of having seen Charlie,
whom he was much pleased with. He told me that at
the present time the feeling was so strong about the
heir to a German throne being brought up in Germany,
that it was impossible to resist it. Some few years
back this was not the case, and I added might not
occur again in some future time. I spoke of my
affection for Coburg and of my beloved Albert’s great
devotion to his old home, also how concerned and
troubled I had been about all these difficulties. He
said the people were well aware of this, and were
particularly anxious to secure the succession in the
English line, adding that both Affie and Helen seemed
to imagine greater difficulties than there really were.

6tk July . — ^Dincd in the large dining-room with the
following .- Count and Coxmtess Deym, the Turkish
Ambassador, M. Cambon (French Ambassador),
the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, Ismay Sfouth-
ampton], Harriet P[hipps], Ethel Cfadogan], Fanny
D[rummond], Minnie Cochrane, Victor Churchill, Sir
A. Bigge, General Clerk, Colonel Lcgge, and Lord
E, Clinton, Sat between Count Deym and M.
Cambon, who is a most agreeable well-informed man
with large views. He spoke of the “ miserable
affaire de Dreyfus,” the feeling about which had
greatly changed. That he would probably be ac-
quitted, and that the whole affair had arisen from
the fact of his being a Jew and being rather a miserable
creature. That he was very intelligent and clever, but
had been so much disliked in the War Office, that
when a succession of betrayals of secrets had taken
place, his colleagues in the office had fixed suspicion
on him. “ II ctait la victime de son caract^re.” M.
Cambon spoke of Louis Philippe, who, though a clever
man, had refused to give any reformes and then fled,
which if he had not done, the Orleans dynasty would
now he on the Throne.

388

QUEEN’S INVITATION TO XAISEK [chap, xv

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Trondhjem, 22nd July 1899. — ^According to the
statement of Victoria’s doctor, the fracture of her calf
hone entails her being laid up for at least three or four
weeks, so I must of course go and stay with her. This
robs me of the so much longed for opportunity of
availing myself of your land invitation to Osborne,
which I most deeply regret. But I am in the hopes
that, should it suit your convenience, I could pay you a
visit in autumn after Papa’s birthday, up to which date
I have many engagements I cannot postpone. With
best wishes for a nice warm summer, William I. R.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to the German Emperor.

23rd July 1899. — I thank you very much for your
kind telegram, so sorry that you had to curtail your
yachting on account of poor Dona’s unfortunate
accident. Shall be very pleased to receive you at
Windsor in November, and I hope nothing will prevent
your coming.

I trust you as well as all the children are quite
well. Victoria R. I.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 2ith July 1899. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfuRy thanks your Majesty
for allowing him to see the very interesting telegram
from the German Emperor to your Majesty. Your
letter has had a most salutary effect.

Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

17 Belgrave Square, 25th July 1899. — Lord
Kitchener presents his humble duty to your Majesty,
and is much honoured by the commission given him.

Lord Kitchener wiR do his best to obtain the finest
female white donkey procurable in Egypt for your
Majesty ; he would, however, like if possible to see or
have the measurements of the male Egyptian donkey
Lord Wolseley brought over for the Queen, so as to
match it as nearly as possible.

1899] TRANSViUL DEBATE 389

After a short visit to Lord Roberts in Ireland from
which Lord Kitchener returns on the 7th, he proposes
to leave England on the 10th August, and will be much
honoured by receiving the Queen’s commands to
take leave of your Majesty.

The German Emperor to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Noedfjoedeid, 27th July 1890,— Five days ago I
telegraphed to H.M. the Queen thanking her for her
gracious invitation to Osborne, which I am dhole not to
be able to follow, as my poor wife has broken her fibula.
I consequently proposed to H.M. to permit me to visit
her later in the year anywhere it best suited her. As
I have received no answer whatever, please enquire
whether my telegram has arrived. William I. R.

“ Hohenzollern,” Bergen, 2Qth July . — ^Best
thanks. Telegram withH.M.’s invitation reached me
to-day ; was sent to Eerchtesgaden instead of
Drontheim ; there the telegram remained because
people took it for an expression of condolence by H.M.
to my wife. Confusion "worse confounded, or the
Comedy of Errors ; ho^n^ever, All’s well that ends well.

I am most grateful, and look forward with pleasure
to my stay at Windsor. Williaai I. R.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House oe Commons, 28tli July 1899. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that the principal business of
the evening was a debate on the affairs of the Trans-
vaal, Sir H. Bannerman spoke first. His tone was
apparently moderate, and with much that he said Mr.
Balfour is in agreement. He admitted the reality
of the Uitlanders’ grievance. He admitted the right
and the duty of the Government of the Queen to use
its influence to get these mitigated or removed. But
he seemed to assume that no remonstrance, however
earnest or well-foimded, should or could be backed
up by force. This is, after aU, the critical question.
Without the threat of force, immediate or remote, it

890 ME. CHAMBEELAIN’S POLICY [chap, xv

is certain that nothing will be done. To say that we
may remonstrate as much as we like, but must never
under any eircumstances go beyond remonstrances, is
as much as to say that we must doom ourselves to a
sterile diplomacy.

Mr. Chamberlain, in a most able smvey of the
whole situation, pointed this out, and explained the
general policy of the Government on the lines of his
original Birmingham speech apd of some observations
made by Mr. Balfour yesterday to the Midland Union.
The feeling [of] the House was unmistakably on the
side of the Government. There was indeed some
“ cross speaking,” one or two Unionists deprecating
a vigorous policy, one or two Liberals strongly taldng
the other side. But no one ventured to divide the
House, the debate was favourable to the policy of
the Colonial Secretary and his colleagues, and their
position was shaken neither by vote nor speech. The
debate lost mterest after Mr. Chamberlain’s statement.
Mr. DiUon, Mr. Labouchere, and others took part in it.
Perhaps the most remarkable and interesting utter-
ance was made by a Welsh Radical lawyer, Mr.
Ellis Griffiths, who spoke against his party.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

“ Hoiienzolleen,” Kiee, 2nd Aug. 1899. — I am so
very glad to have won your Cup, the first my Meteor
has won in Cowes, as the other one was taken by the
former boat I had. Most grateful for kind telegram
and wishes. So sorry Victoria’s accident prevented my
coming over to be present at the Regatta. Was very
glad to meet your training Squadron at Bergen under
Uie command of that most able and agreeable officer,
Commodore Enoe, whose promotion to your Aide-de-
Canip is well merited. WiLUAivr I. R.

Colonel Barrington Foote to Sir Arthur Bigge,

Royai, Aktiiaery Barracks, WooLwicir, Sth August 1899.

My deae Aethue, — Don’t think me a bore, but
poor old Zavertal is getting very depressed. I’ve

1899] THE BANDMASTERS AGAIN 891

said his commission was in a box all ready to be signed
some two months ago. Where is the hitcli ? I saw
Brocklehurst, and his Bandmaster is in the same state.
Re had got hold of some idea that there was opposition
on the part of the Admiralty ! I cannot see how
this could be. Yours ever, P. 0. Bahrington Foote.

Sir Michael Hicks Beach to Sir Arthur Bigge,

9th Aug. 1899. — As to the Bandmasters^ I have
been expecting to hear from the War Office for a long
time, but have only just done so. I understand that
only four are to have Commissions, and I have suggested
that, as I understood their Commissions are to be those
of Lieutenants, they should have the pay, allowances,
etc., of Lieutenants. Yours very truly, M. Hicks
Beach.

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

OsBOBNE, 7th Aug. 1899. — ^Bertie, Alix, and Vic-
toria came to say good-bye to me, as they are
leaving quite early to-morrow morning, Bertie en route
for Marienbad, and Alix to remain at Sandringham
with Maud. Heard from Sir Condie Stephen that
Helen had met with a very cordial reception, and that
Charlie had already made a very good impression.

llih Aug . — Saw Mr. Balfour after luncheon, who
said that this Session had been the most successful
and the quietest he ever remembered, and that every-
thing was most satisfactory excepting the Transvaal,
which was a great source of anxiety. Firmness and
a display of force would, he feared, bring things to a
head, and the latter would entail the calling out of
the Reserves, as well as calling Parliament together.
We talked of many other things and of Lady Salisbury
and his uncle, of whom he spoke most kindly and
sympathetically ,

12th Aug . — Saw Mr. Balfour after breakfasting in
the tent. Consulted him as to whether I could pro-
pose to Lord Salisbury to come and see me here or
‘ See above, pp. 848-9, and below, p. Wt.

892 LORD SALISBURY ON POLICY [chap, xv

whether it would be better not. He thought the
latter, as he had had very bad accounts of poor Lady
Salisbury, and Lord S^isbury could not possibly
leave her. Mr. Balfour very kindly offered to come
here once more before I left, if he could be of any use.
Talked of different important matters. After lun-
cheon saw old Sir Harry Keppel,^ who is past ninety
and quite wonderful, still so active. He seemed very
pleased to see me. His nephew, Sir Henry Stephenson,
who has been very ill, came with him.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Walmee, Castle, l^th Aug. 1899, — . . . Lady
Salisbury, after whom your Majesty so kindly en-
quires, is still in bed ; but we hope to get her up
a little next week. She has been constantly im-
proving, though at a very slow rate, for the last
month ; but she is still exceedingly weak, and her
condition fills us stiU with a good deal of anxiety and
apprehension. But the physicians say that she has a
wonderful recuperative power, which indeed is evi-
dent ; so that hope is not yet shut out. But it is a
long uphill struggle.

Foeeign Office, 16 th Aug. — ^Lord Sahsbury , . .
concurs with your Majesty in thinking that just
now Great Britain is exceptionally strong ; but there
is violent jealousy both in France and Germany.
Both have become Colonial Powers to a much greater
extent than they were before, and the number of
places where their paths cross the path of England
is much larger than it used to be. Our relations with
those two Powers will remain a subject of anxiety.
Your Majesty’s personal influence over the Emperor
William is a powerful defence against danger in that
direction ; as is shown by the great effect of the
letter which you wrote to him. In France we have
no such protection. Sir Edmund Monson is rather
nervous, lest the extreme parties in France should see
in a war with England the only refuge from the dis-

’ Admiral of the Fleet ; son of the 4th Earl of Albemarle ; died 1904.

393

1899] OP GERMANY. PRANCE AND RUSSIA

graceful incidents in which France is now involved.
But Sir Edmund always tends to be a prophet of evil :
the danger does not appear to Lord Salisbury to be
as yet of a serious kind.

Lord Salisbury agrees with your Majesty that Sir
Charles Scott is too much disposed to put faith in
Mouravieff . He is certainly reckless in his assurances,
and probably treacherous. No great harm, however,
is likely to come of it so long as Sir Charles faithfully
reports home what is said to him. The Russian
Government is perfidious, but pleasant in negotiation.
On the whole the results at which it arrives are not
worse than the results of the German Emperor’s un-
reasoning caprice, or of the violent popular passions
by which France is driven.

The news from the Transvaal looks somewhat
better. Lord Salisbury still thinks a war improbable.

Sir M. Durand’s correspondence is not satisfactory,
but our position in Persia is extremely difficult. The
only things which move the Persians are bribery and
fear, but we cannot bribe even if we had the money ;
and we have no soldiers in the Persian territory.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Viceregal Lodge, Simla, 16th Aug. 1899. — ^The
Viceroy with his humble duty to your Majesty, the
Queen Empress, has the honour to acknowledge the
letter which your Majesty was so good as to write to
him on the 28th of July. He has not troubled your
Majesty for some weeks, fearing that his letters might
become a nuisance.

The Viceroy has paid special attention to the
strong expression of your Majesty’s wishes concerning
the appointment of a Resident at Indore; and has
selected an officer named Colonel Jennings, who has
a capacity for getting on with Native Chiefs, being
talkative, conciliatory, and not disposed to interfere
too much. It will really rest with the Maharajah how
the new scheme works ; and the Viceroy has written
to the Prince to tell him so. If he is reasonable, and

394 HOLKAR AND HIS NEW RESIDENT [chap, xv

shows any desire to fulfil his promises, to profit by the
advice given to him, and to govern well, there is no
reason why the Government of India should fall out
with him, or why his own sense of dignity should suffer
from arrangements to which so many other Indian
Princes of equal rank have contentedly submitted.
If he is obstinate or capricious or rude, there will be
a renewal of friction. . . .

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, ld>th Aug. 1899. — Captain Harrington,
my Agent in Abyssinia, brought a phonograph message
from the Emperor Menelek and the Empress Taitou,
which I listened to, and the translation of which was
read to me. It was very curious.

24fh Aug. — Lord Salisbury arrived for two nights.
Saw him directly after luncheon. He seemed well,
and talked a good deal of his poor wife and her illness,
hoping to be able to move her in a fortnight, as she is
decidedly better again. Lord Salisbury admitted that
the Session had been the most satisfactory one known
for many years. Much had been done and measures
had been carried by large majorities without any dis-
agreeable scenes or fighting, greatly owing to so few
Irish being able to come over. The Transvaal ques-
tion he hoped was improving. He was distressed to
hear of the bad feeling in Germany against us, which
he hoped might get better. Talked, of course, of the
dreadful Dreyfus case. Lord Salisbury hoped he
might be acquitted, but one could not tell. The
failure of the War Office he, as usual, lamented over,
and said most of his colleagues were in despair about it.

The Queen of the Netherlands to Queen Victoria.

IIet Loo, Srd September 1890.

My dear Aunt, — ’The serious news from South
Africa that reached me these last days causes me
^eat unhappiness, as they seem to indicate that a war
is very near to break out.

You will understand, dear Aunt, the feehngs of

1899] QUEEN WILHELMINA ON TRANSVAAL 895

horror which affect me at the idea of a war, the more
so in this case, where two nations will stand in arms
opposite to one another, to one of which I am attached
by bonds of friendship, the other by ties of common
origin. I venture to hope that this circumstance will
explain and excuse in your eyes, dear Aunt, my
addressing you in this matter, by appealing to your
well-known feeling of humanity and magnanimity,
and entreating you to use your powerful influence to
prevent this war, that would I know fill also your heart
with sorrow, because it will bring mourning and misery
into many families on both sides by the inevitable
bloodshed and destruction of property. God grant
that your wisdom, experience, and greatness of mind
may find the way to avert this impending calamity !

I hope, dear Aunt, you will understand the feelings
which prompted me to wTite this letter, and therefore
consider its contents in a friendly way. I remain,
dearest Aunt and Sister, with respectful love, your
Majesty’s very affectionate niece and sister, WiL-
HELMINA.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,
[Cypher Telegram,]

8th Sept. 1899. — Humble duty. At Cabinet to-day
the messages from Natal were considered, urging that
troops should be sent to protect the Natal frontier
and Colony against attack on part of the Boers, of
which there were many signs, and which might sud-
denly come to pass.

It was therefore decided to send six thousand men
from India, and four battalions with some Artillery
and Cavalry from England : orders for the Expedition
to be given without delay There was a very long

‘ In a letter of the same date LordLansdowne gives details, and adds ;
“ The Indian contingent is expected to reach Natal in from four to
five -weeks, the three batteries of Artillery in about six weeks, two
battalions of Infantry in about a month, and the other two in about
six weeks. With these additions the total force in Natal will amoimt
to about 16,000 men, the whole of -the above reinforcements, except
two battalions of Infantry, beinv destined for that Colony,”

896 DREYFUS CONDEMNED AGAIN [chap, xv

discussion on various military questions which had
to be decided. It was also resolved to address a note
to the Orange Free State Government calling their
attention to the absolute necessity of a scrupulous
neutrality on the part of the Government and people
of the Orange Free State if, contrary to our earnest
hopes, any collision between us and the Transvaal
were to take place.

The draft of a despatch which Mr. Chamberlain
proposes to address to the South African Republic in
reply to that which they have sent to him was care-
fully considered and amended sentence by sentence.
It was very moderate in its tone ; but it adhered
firmly to the demands with respect to the franchise,
the constitution of the Assembly, and the other similar
questions, which we have already made. . . .

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, %th Sept. 1899 . — ^Heard the news of
poor Dreyfus’ fresh condemnation by five votes to
two, through Reuter, and also through Mr. Herbert,
Secretary of Embassy at Paris, After having been
so splendidly defended by Labor! and Demange, it
is dreadful that it should have been in vain. Every-
one is greatly excited and distressed about it.

\Telegravi.^'\ Queen Victoria to Mr. Herbert.

Balmoral, 9th Sept. 1899 . — ^Thanks for your tele-
gram with the news of this monstrous verdict against
this poor martyr. I trust he will appeal against this
dreadful sentence. V. R. I.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Telegram .]

Balmoral, 9th Sept. 1899 . — . . I am too horrified
for words at this monstrous horrible sentence against
this poor martyr Dreyfus, If only all Europe would

' This telegram, which was not in cypher, leaked out in Paris, and
produced in the Press abuse of England and of the Queen. Mr.
Herbert was Secretary of Embassy in Paris ; afterwards Sir Michael
H. Herbert, G.C.B., Ambassador to the United States.

1899] THE QUEEN TO QUEEN WELHELMINA 897

express its horror and indignation ! I trust there -will
be a severe retribution. V. H. I.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oefice, 12fA Sep. 1899. — . . . He en-
tirely shares your Majesty’s burning indignation at
the gross and monstrous injustice which has been
perpetrated in France. It is perfectly horrible ; and
gives the impression that truth and justice are no
longer regarded as of any serious importance in
France. It is difficult to understand how any country
can conduct either civil or military Government in
such a deplorable condition of the public mind.

Queen Victoria to the Queen of the Netherlands.^

[Copy.]^ Baiaiobal, (?) Seplember 1899.

My dear Niece, — ^I thank you very much for your
kind letter received a few days ago, and which has had
my sincerest consideration.

I sympathise most deeply with your expressions
of the horrors of war, than which no one can feel more
strongly than I do ; and earnestly hope that it may
be averted. But I cannot abandon my own subjects
who have appealed to me for protection. If President
Kruger is reasonable, there will be no war, but the
issue is in his hands.

With kindest regards to your dear Mother, believe
me always, dearest Niece, your very affectionate
Aunt and Sister, Victoria R. I.

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

12th Sept. 1899. — ^Lord Wolseley presents his
humble duty to the Queen, and has the honour to
inf oral her Majesty that it has been found necessary
to send Lieut. -General Sir George White, G.C.B., to
Natal to take command there and make due prepara-
tion for the reception of the Brigade of Cavalry, the
Brigade of Foot, and the Brigade Division of Artillery
soon to start from India for that Colony.

‘ Lord Salisbury had advised the Queen as to the terms of this
reply.

898 FORCES AND GENERALS FOR S. AFRICA [chap, xv

The Commander-in-Chief is aware that Lord
Lansdowne has already reported this to the Queen.
The officer at present commanding the troops in Natal
will, upon the arrival of Sir George White, take over
command of the Infantry battalions now there, and of
those coming from India, and Lord Wolseley would
recommend for the Queen’s approval that Major-
General French,^ now commanding Cavalry Brigade
at Aldershot, should go as soon as possible to Natal
to command the Cavalry there. When the Indian
contingent reaches Natal, we shall have there, with
the four battalions and the Brigade Division of R.A.
going from home and from the Mediterranean, six
regiments of Cavalry, eleven battalions of Foot, and
nine battahons of Field, and one of Mountain Artillery,
sixty guns in all. Colonel Kriox, a very good Artillery
officer, is now on his road to Ladysmith to command
at that station, but it is intended to send out at once
a Colonel to command this large force of Artillery.
Should we be forced into a war by the Boers, we are
to send from home one Army Corps and one Cavalry
division complete, when Sir Redvers Buller will
assume command of all the forces in South Africa,
Sir George White, in command of one of the divisions
of the Army Corps, being his second-in-command.

As soon as the latter reaches South Africa, it is
intended to make Natal into an independent command,
leaving Sir F. Forestier-Walker, now at the Cape, to
command aU the troops in that Colony. We shall
have two hospital ships plying between Durban and
the Cape, to which latter place we intend to send all
our wounded and our seriously sick cases. We shall
establish a large base hospital near Cape Town, pro-
bably at Simon’s Bay, fourteen miles from Cape Town,
where we have a large Naval station but no city, and
where the sick can be landed close to the hospital.

Lord Wolseley hopes he may not tire the Queen by
all these details. It must be remembered that if war
comes, we shall be obliged to send the largest force

' Eventually Field-Marshal the Earl of Ypies.

399

1899] COUNT BULOW TO VISIT WINDSOIl

that has ever left our shores to take part in it, and the
distance being great, it -will be in all respects the
most serious business we have ever had on hand. I
have the honour to be, the Queen’s most humble and
faithful servant, Wolseley.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

15th Sept. 1899.^ — -Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully submits that two
or three times lately Count Hatzfeldt has pressed
earnestly upon him that he should suggest to your
Majesty to ask Count Biilow, the Foreign Minister, on
the occasion of the visit of the German Emperor.
Lord Salisbury has heard nothing but good of Monsieur
de Biilow ; and the German Ambassador has pressed
so earnestly that he should be invited that it is pro-
bably of some importance.

Sir Edmund Monson to Queen Victoria.

Paris, 15th Sept. 1899. — Sir Edmund Monson
presents his humble duty to your Majesty.

He understands from Mr. Herbert that your
Majesty is anxious to have any information procurable
about the Dreyfus case ; but he learns also that Mr.
Herbert wrote at considerable length by last messenger
to Sir Arthur Bigge, so that your Majesty is undoubt-
edly in possession of all the information of interest at
present known to the Embassy.

At the interview which Sir Edmund Monson had
ivith M. Delcasse the day before yesterday, the latter
did not refer to the Dre 3 rfus case at all ; and though it
has been more than once stated in the unofficial press
that the President has decided to give the un-
fortunate man a free pardon, no confirmation of that
statement has been formally made.

There seems to be very uttle doubt of the terrible
effect which his sufferings have had upon Dreyfus’
physical condition ; and that his health is now so bad
that his life will only be able to be prolonged by

e''’+reme tg.

400 DREYFUS LIBERATED [chap, xv

The verdict, gained as it was by the use of every
kind of illegality, can hardly be regarded as a triumph
by the persecuting party, who had of course hoped for
a unanimous condemnation. The disappointment on
their part is all the greater from the fact that it is
notorious that an acquittal was very nearly arrived
at. . . .

[Telegram.]

20th Sept , — ^Dreyfus was liberated last night.
Monson,

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

23rd Sept. 1899. — Lord Sahsbury with his humble
duty respectfully submits to your Majesty that the
telegram sent yesterday by Mr. Chamberlain in
answer to the last Transvaal despatch practically only
stated that we could not accept the answer given by
the Boers, and that we must consider our position.
We have disclaimed any intention to interfere with
their independence ; but we decline to admit that a
small Dutch population shall be allowed in a state
which is under your Majesty’s suzerainty to oppress a
much larger number of your Majesty’s British sub-
jects, A fuller statement of our complaints and of
the remedies we demand will be considered at the
Cabinet next Friday.

The precise form in which our demands for the
security of the Uitlanders is to be advanced, wiU be a
matter for very grave consideration. On the one
hand we cannot abandon them without great injustice,
nor without endangering your Majesty’s authority in
the whole of South Africa. On the other hand, we are
most earnestly anxious to avoid any rupture with the
Boers, if it is possible. But they do not assist us to
do so. Our last despatch was very carefully con-
sidered by the Cabinet, and by general admission, was
very moderate in its demands, and very considerate
in its language. But it was rejected by the Boers
without ceremony.

It is impossible to avoid believing that the Boers

1899] RESERVE TO BE CALLED OUT -Wl

really aim at setting up a South African Republic,
consisting of the Transvaal, the Orange Free State,
and your Majesty’s Colony. It is impossible to
account in any other manner for their rejection of our
most moderate proposals.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Malmoe, 2oth Sept. 1899. — Most grateful for kind
letter and invitations for Dona. Slie will be most
happy to come. Which of the boys will be able to
accompany me I will answer later as the eldest are
just before their examination. Biilow most honoured
and grateful. William I. R.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
{Cypher Telegram.']

29th Sept, 1899. — ^Humble duty. At Cabinet this
afternoon a statement of the precautions w'hich are
thought necessary by your Majesty’s Government to
protect the rights and liberties of the Outlanders was
agreed to. Your Majesty will receive in a day or two
a revised copy. The demands are very moderate ;
but by aU accounts the Boers are obstinate.

The effect of the resolution voted by the Assembly
of the Orange Free State was also considered ; and
the opinion was unanimous that the terms of the
resolution, especially its closing phrases, constituted a
declaration of alliance between the Otange Free State
and the Transvaal.

It was thought necessary that the Reserve should
be called out, as it appeared probable that a consider-
able force might be required. But for that purpose
it will be necessary under the Statute that Parhament
should meet ; and Lord Salisbury was instructed to
submit to your Majesty that it should be summoned
for the 17th of October.

Sir Edmund Monson to Queen Victoria.

Paris, 1st Oct. 1899. — Sir Edmund Monson pre-
sents his humble duty to your Majesty, and ventures

402 FRENCH JOURNALS ON TRANSVAAL [chap, xv

to offer his most respectful thanks for your Majesty’s
gracious letter of the 22nd September.

Since his arrival at Carpentras Dreyfus has been
living in complete seclusion, and appears to be
desirous of not in any way attracting public attention.
If, as it would appear, he nurtures the intention of
eventually attempting the complete vindication of his
honour, he is probably well advised in withdrawing
himself for the moment from observation. There
seems to be a general desire to allow the passions
excited by the affaire plenty of time to cool down ;
and it is curious to note how extensively the subject
has been dropped by the newspapers. The calcula-
tion probably made by Dreyfus and his advisers may
be that it will be more advantageous to wait for a more
dispassionate condition of public opinion before taking
any step for the definite rehabilitation of the unfortu-
nate man’s honour.

Meanwhile, the French newspapers have found in
the Transvaal question an opportunity for retaliating
upon England for the freedom with which the Enghsh
Press criticised the proceedings at the Rennes Court-
martial. To anyone, however, who has to study
carefully the conduct and methods of the French
journalists, it can be no matter of surprise that they
gladly avail themselves of a topic of such interest for
the purpose of abuse. It is nevertheless to be re-
gretted, for the credit of journalism, that there should
be so widespread a combination of falsehood and mis-
representation in the articles published here upon the
attitude of your Majesty’s Government. The only
redeeming point in the systematic abuse of England
is tlie never-failing respect which characterises every
allusion to your Majesty, . . .

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

4th October 1899.

Madam, — I think the enclosed papers will interest
your Majesty. The list of Staff is not quite perfect,
as it is an early copy. I am now sending your Majesty

]S9<Jl OUR MILITARY PREPARATIONS 403

a telegram to say we have no news from South Africa
of any importance. It is a matter of importance to
gain as much time as we can, to allow the troops
coming from India to get to Durban, and from there
to Ladysmith before any attack is made by the Boers,
Sir George White has left Cape Town, and will be in
Natal next Saturday, 7th instant. Sir Redvers Buller
is to embark for the Cape on Saturday, 14th instant.
When all our troops de.stined for South Africa have
arrived there, your Majesty will have in that country
about 70,000 men of your Maje.sty’s Army, the largest
number ever sent from the United Kingdom for airy
war. I have asked the Cabinet to call out thirty-six
Militia battalions, that is, one belonging to each of the
line regiments that will have a battalion in South
Africa when the Army has arrived there. Also to
raise seven of the cavalry regiments left at home to a
higher establishment, and to raise all the field and
horse artillery batteries for the 2nd Army Corps (at
home) from four- to six-gun batteries.

General Kelly Kenny takes up the temporary
command at Aldershot next Saturday, an appointment
which I hope may meet with your Majesty’s approval.

I shall keep your Majesty constantly informed of
all further doings with regard to our preparations.
On Saturday next, the 7th instant, by your Majesty’s
orders, the Army Reserve for all the corps to be
employed will be called out, and should be clothed and
armed and in the ranks by the 17th instant. I hope
to get off the first detachment of battalions for the
seat of war, if wc are to have war, about the 21st or
22nd or 23rd iirstant. I still cling to the idea that in
the end we shall have no serious fighting. I have the
honour to be, your Majesty’s most humble, most
faithful servant, Wolseley.

Extract from the Queen^s Journal.

Balmoral, 5th Oct. 1899. — Sir Redvers Buller
arrived, and I saw him a little after eleven. He had
much that was interesting to say in his blunt, straight-

TfT — *’7

-104 TRANSVAAL ULTIMATUM [chap, xv

forward way. He spoke of his staff, amongst whom
was Colonel Miles, who was for a short time with Eddy.
Sir Redvers was to go out on the 14th, Colonel Kelly
Kenny, who had been under Arthur at Aldershot,
taking the temporary command during his absence.
There had been delays and waste of time, which was
to be regretted, and he said the War Office left much
to be desired, and needed entire remodelling. I
expressed to Sir Redvers my confidence in him, but he
said he hoped it would not be a very long business, and
did not think “ there would be much hard fighting.”
I recommended Christie very much to him, who, he
said, was an excellent officer. Went through the
return of the troops with him. He seemed satisfied
with what had been arranged, and mentioned several
of the various officers who were going out. I begged
him to let me know when he arrived, and to write to
me if he could.

[Telegram.] Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Whitehall, 10th Oct. 1899. — Government of the
South African Repubhc have presented an ultimatum
in the following terms :

(а) That all points of mutual difference shall be regulated
by the friendly course of arbitration, or by whatever amicable
way be agreed upon by this Government with her Majesty’s
Government.

(б) That the troops on the borders of this Republic shall be
instantly withdrawn.

(c) That all reinforcements of troops which have arrived in
South Africa since the 1st June, 1899, shall be removed from South
Africa within a reasonable time to be agreed upon with this
Government, and with a mutual assurance and guarantee on the
part of this Government that no attack upon or hostilities against
any portion of the possessions of the British Government shall
be made by the Republic during further negotiations within a
period of time to be subsequently agreed upon between the
Governments, and this Government will on compliance therewith
be prepared to withdraw the armed burghers of this Republic
from the borders.

(d) That her Majesty’s troops which are now on the high seas
shall not be landed in any port of South Africa.

This Government must press for an immediate and affirmative

WAR BEGUN

403

1890]

answer to tliese four questions, and earnestly requests her Majesty’s
Government to return such an answer before or upon Wednesday
the 11th October, 1899, not later than 5 o’clock p.m., and it desires
further to add that in the event of unexpectedly no satisfactory
answer being received by it within that interval [it] will with great
regret be compelled to regard the action of her Majesty’s Govern-
ment as a formal declaration of war, and will not hold itself
responsible for the consequences thereof, and that in the event of
any further movements of troops taking place within the above-
mentioned time in thenearer directions of our borders, this Govern-
ment will be compelled to regard that also as a formal declaration
of war. I have, etc. Signed, E. W. llnrrz, State Secretary.

Full text follows. J. Chamberlain.

7.45 [p.m.]. — Lord Salisbury has approved follow-
ing reply to be delivered to South AMcan Republic
to-morrow : “ H.M.’s Government have received with
great regret South African Republic’s peremptory
demands conveyed in your telegram of October 9th.
You will inform the Government of South African
Republic in reply that the conditions demanded by
them are such as H.M.’s Government deem it impos-
sible to discuss.”

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 10th Oct. 1899. — I annex the astound-
ing telegram sent by the South African Republic, and
the answer which the Government has sent. This
must, I fear, lead to war, but fortunately Sir George
White has landed, and is in his place with quite a
sufficient number of troops to withstand any attack.

Mr. Schomberg McDonnell to Sir Fleetwood Edwards.
[Telegram.]

Whitehall, llth Oct. 1899. — Lord Rosebery has
written to the papers declaring that a situation has been
created beyond party polemics, that the time is past
for criticism or condemnation of Government, and
that the nation should close its ranks in face of attack
by South African Republic. He is profoundly con-
vinced that a repetition of the policy which concluded
peace after Majuba Hill is impossible for any Govern-
ment. MpDonnett.,

406

MR. CHAMBERLAIN ON SITUATION [chap, xv

Mr. Chamberlain io Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 12th Oct. 1899. — ^Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and begs
to thank your Majesty for your telegram approving
the answer to the Government of the South African
Republic.

This Government, by its inconceivable folly and
arrogance, has itself closed the door to all chance of a
peaceful settlement ; and although war is at all times
deeply to be regretted, Mr. Chamberlain has long felt
that the differences between this country and the
Transvaal could only be settled by force, and he is
glad that the inevitable conflict has now been com-
menced by the Boers under circumstances which must
unite every loyal subject of your Majesty in its
energetic prosecution.

Your Majesty’s Government will now hold back
the despatch which formulated their demands, and
which was intended to be presented yesterday ; and
they will enter upon the war with free hands as to the
terms on which peace may ultimately be secured.

Mr. Chamberlain regrets the delay which must
elapse before your Majesty’s forces will be ready to
take the offensive. He would personally have been
glad to despatch much larger reinforcements at a
much earher period, but the attitude of the leaders of
the Opposition and the general state of public opinion
at the time made it necessary to delay action which
might have given rise to a serious division in this
country. Such a division might have hampered the
operations in the field, and might also have interfered
later with the imposition of sp,tisfactory terms of peace.

It seemed therefore better to take the risks of delay
and not to incur the expenditure necessary for the
transport of an Army Corps until public opinion had
been instructed in the gravity of the issues and there
was no fear of a division of views on strict party fines.

But your Majesty is aware that during the last
three months reinforcements amounting in the whole

1890] PARLIAMENT AND THE AVAR K)7

to about 13,000 men haA’^e been quietly sent to South
Africa ; and Mr. Chamberlain unclcr.stands that it is
the opinion of the military authorities that your
Majesty’s Forces will be able to hold their own every-
where until the Army Corps is ready to move. In
this case the delay will not be to our disadvantage, as
the peculiar organisation of the Boer army makes it
difficult for them to endure a long campaign, and it is
even possible that many of them may go home to their
farms without waiting for an attack.

Mr. Chamberlain ha.s just been informed by Lord
Lansdownc that a complete brigade of 5 battalions
with its remounts wUl be ready on the 2()th October,
and should arrive in South Africa on or before 11th
November.

Meanwhile, the troops already sent are arriving in
almost all cases before the dates named for them,

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria,

House of Commons, 17ih Oct. 1899. — . . . On
the question of the Address to the Throne the debate
on the Transvaal war was raised at once and continued
all night. . . . [Sir H. Bannerman’s] speech exhibited
a peculiarity Avhich Mr. Balfour has more than once
observed in his Parliamentary utterances. He began
Avith an excellent and patriotic statement to the effect
that he and his friends were prepared to support the
Government in any proposals financial and military
which might be deemed necessary for the successful
prosecution of the war. Unfortunately, he spoiled
the effect of this commencement by appending to it a
feeble and somewhat captious criticism of the action
of the Government in sending out troops and in the
conduct of the negotiations. Mr. Balfour was there-
fore compelled to make a controversial reply which,
under existing circumstance, he Avould have been
glad to avoid. When Mr. Balfour sat down Mr.
Dillon rose and moved an amendment (seconded by
Mr. Labouchere), condemning the whole policy of the
Government. For the rest of the evening the debate

408' LARGE GOVERNMENT MAJORITY [chap, xv

was given up mainly to the disloyal Irish, who revived
and repeated every calumny which the ingenuity of
the foreign or South African Press has directed
against this country. Mr. Balfour did not think it
necessary for any member of the Government to reply ;
but Colonel Saunderson made a most happy retort
upon his fellow-countrymen. In the division the
Government were victorious by an immense majority,
322-54.

IQth Oct . — , . . The debate on the Address was
concluded this evening. The principal feature of the
proceedings was a very able and exhaustive defence
by Mr. Chamberlain. In a speech of two hours and
t&ee-quarters he suiweyed every criticism on the
recent negotiations, answered Sir William Harcourt,
and pulverised Mr. [Philip] Stanhope. He was followed
by Sir Edward Clarke, usually a loyal and efficient
member of the Conservative Party, and once a Law
Officer of the Crown. On the subject of the Transvaal
he has from the first taken an unfortunate line ; and
felt bound, in the interests of consistency, to say
to-night in the House of Commons what he has already
said in the country. Pie was ingenious and legal, but
hardly convincing. Mr. Morley, who spoke later in
the evening, was neither ingenious nor legal nor con-
vincing ; and Mr. Courtney who, hke Sir E. Clarke,
spoke against his party, added no strength to the
cause of the Opposition. Mr. Haldane, ^ Radical
member for Haddington, strongly supported the
Government, and IMr. Balfour, who had only twenty
minutes before the suspension of business in which to
reply, expressed the view, which he strongly holds,
that the Boer Government were determined from the
first to fight rather than give really efficient measures of
relief to the Uitlanders. A division on the amendment
was taken, and the Government won by the enormous
majority of 227 — a most satisfactory conclusion to the
debate.

’ Afterwards successively Sceretary of State for War, and Lord
Chancellor ; created Viscount Haldane.

1899]

QUEEN AND GORDON HIGHLANDERS 409

Extract from the Queen’s Journal

Balmoual, 19Z/i Oct. 1899. — Drove with Anna and
Franzjos round by the Pass of Ballatcr, Beatrice
following, driving herself with Louisa A[ntrim]. Went
back through Ballater to the barracks, where my guard
of Gordon Highlandei’s were drawn up, having to start
off for Edinburgh to join the rest of the regiment and
embark for South Africa. I drove down the line, they
marched past and reformed in line. I addressed them
a few parting words as follows ; “ I desire to wish you
Godspeed. May God protect you I I am confident
that you will always do your duty, and will ever main-
tain the high reputation of the Gordon Highlanders.”
The men then gave three cheers, and I called up Captaiir
Kerr, who seemed much moved, and could hardly
speak. I shook hands with him, and wished him a safe
return, and also spoke to the two Lieutenants. It was
very touching, and I felt quite a lump in my throat as
we drove away, and I thought of how these remarkably
fine men might not all return.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

20th Oct. 1899. — I sincerely hope that the increased
taxation, necessary to meet the expenses of the war,
will not fall upon the working classes ; but I fear they
will be most affected by the extra sixpence on beer.^

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

21st Oct. 1899. — Humble duty. It is not believed
that the tax on beer will fall upon the working classes
so much as on the brewers. It would not, however, be
safe to lay down as a principle that the working class
should bear no part of the cost of a war. It would be
not fair on the richer classes, who at the elections are

' Lord SalisLury had telegraphed to her that the Chancellor of the
Exchequer proposed to put a penny on the income-tax and sixpence on
beer. But after further consideration it was decided to postpone
detailed financial proposals till the Budget.

410 QUEEN ON SHORT SERVICE [chap, xv

in a small minority. The policy of the country is
decided by the working classes, and of course they
don’t pay the income tax. . . .

[Telegram.'] Queen Victoria to Sir George White.

20th Oct. 1899. — Congratulate all concerned on bril-
liant success at Glencoe.^ Deeply grieved at heavy
losses. Am most anxious to hear how General Symons
and all wounded officers and men are going on. V. R. I.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Telegram.]

22nd Oct. 1899. — My heart bleeds for these dreadful
losses. Again to-day a great success, but I fear very
dearly bought. Would you try and convey my
warmest, heartfelt sympathy with the near relations of
the fallen and wounded, and admiration of the conduct
of those they have lost ? V. R. I.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

22nd Oct. 1899. — . . . I quite understand and
appreciate your Majesty’s reasons for going to the
Italian town.^

Sir Arthur Bigge to Viscount Wolseley.

Windsor Castle, 22nd October 1899.

My dear Lord Wolseley, — ^The Queen has com-
manded me to express to you her gratification at the
practical and successful manner in which the mobilisa-
tion of the forces for South Africa has been carried out ;
and also at the remarkable and almost general return
to the colours of those Reservists who were called out.

The Queen knows how pleased you must be at
these practical and excellent results of a system, for
the development of which you have so indefatigably
worked during many years. Yours very sincerely,
Arthur Bigge.

1 The first engagement of the war.

“ Bordighera. Owing to the bitter feeling in h^rance against
England over the war, the Queen was making arrangements to visit
the Italian, and not the French, Riviera in the coming spring.

1890J

£)JbTAILS OE MOBILISATION

411

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

23rd Oct. 1899. — Lord Wolseley presents Ms humble
duty to the Queen, and feels very proud indeed that
her Majesty should feel satisfied with the manner in
which the military machinery of her Army has worked
during the present mobilisation of one Army Corps
and one Division of Cavalry. Lord Wolseley’s only
regret is, that this mobilisation did not take place two
months ago.

The result up to the present is as follows : On the
7th instant the Queen’s orders for the mobilisation of
the above-mentioned force were issued. The men
were given ten days to assemble, the number to whom
notices were sent being about 24,500 men. That is,
the number of men belonging to the regiments of
Cavalry and of Infantry, of Artillery, etc., etc., to be
employed. Of this 24,500 men, 24,040 rejoined, and
of that number 1,638 were rejected by our doctors as
unfit for active service. The first detachment em-
barked on the 20th instant at Southampton : five
battalions, of whom four constitute the 2nd Brigade
of 1st Division, and one belonged to the troops for the
Line of Communications. I never saw five finer
battalions, not one man under the influence of drink.
When the five ships carrying these 5,000 men had
pushed off from the quays, the men crowding every
possible part of the upper decks sang God Save the
Queen.

By the evening of yesterday, Monday, 23rd instant,
some 21,161 men were embarked, and had sailed for
South Africa. This reflects the greatest credit upon
all Staff Officens who had to plan and carry out this
operation, by far the largest operation of the sort we
have ever attempted before.

Lord Wolseley regrets very much they are not
already in South Africa, where their services are now
sorely needed. The horse ships are very well fitted,
and I hope the horses may have a comfortable voyage.
Everything that could be done to make it so has been

412 QUEEN’S ANXIETY ABOUT NATAL [chap, xv

carried out, and attended to as the Queen desired.
The number of horses embarked was 1,895.

Lord Wolseley knows the Queen will be glad to
hear from him that our 2nd Army Corps could be
mobilised quite easily in. a fortnight, and ready for
embarkation if needed.

He has urged the Government to call out 36
battalions of Militia, to raise to war strength at home
7 regiments of Cavalry, and the 18 batteries of
Artillery we should want for our 2nd Army Corps.
The Cabinet have agreed to this, and I think the
effect abroad will be good.

Lord Wolseley is in great hopes that the success
of this partial mobilisation may so satisfy all classes
of the Queen’s subjects that even the old-fashioned
Generals, who honestly believed it would not work,
may recognise its advantages. I have the honour to
be, your Majesty’s most obedient and most faithful
sulDject, Wolseley.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, 23rd Oct. 1899. — ^Received a telegram
in cypher which distressed and made me very anxious,
saying that General Yule was afraid of being again
attacked, and had to retire, leaving the whole of the
camp, as well as the wounded, behind, the enemy’s
forces being very large. Sir G. White considers the
situation anxious, and sent for all available troops.
Drove with Louisa A[ntrim] and Victoria Grant.
There was a perfect avalanche of telegrams and things
to be seen to when I came home. I feel quite
overpowered.

Lord Brassey to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Melbourne, 18th Oct. 1899.
—Lord Brassey presents his humble duty to her
Majesty the Queen Empress, and has great gratifica-
tion in reporting that the patriotic sentiment evoked
by the recent events in South Africa has been deep

1899] AUSTRALASIAN LOYALTY 413

and almost universal. In Parliament the only dis-
sentients have been a small group of narrow views,
and connected with a section only of the Labour Party.
In a time of real emergency Lord Brassey is convinced
that Australia could and would give powerful aid to
the Mother Country.

The departure of our small contingent will be made
the occasion for an imposing military and patriotic
demonstration of loyalty to your Majesty and the
noble Empire over which you rule. . . .

The Earl of Ranfurly to Lord Edward Clinton.^

[Copy.] Government House, Weixington, ‘ZSrd October 1890.

Dear Clinton, — The proceedings of last Saturday
here, when the New Zealand contingent embarked for
the Transvaal, were so unique in Colonial history that
I am sending you an account in case the Queen should
care to hear it. . . . Since the first proposal to send
a contingent to South Africa, the country has been
full of loyal excitement, and any number more could
have been enrolled had it been so desired.

I have long wished to convey to her Majesty
privately how remarkable is the intense and universal
devotion to herself in this far-off country. It is so
striking that, where so many are Colonials by birth
and have therefore never come in contact with home
influences, the Queen’s name is a magic speU which
arouses the wildest enthusiasm wherever one may go.
I have visited every town in the Colony, and every-
where it is the same ; I should much like to think she
knew it. New Zealanders look to England as their
own ; they watch Imperial questions with the deepest
interest, and I am certain that had 2,000 men been
called upon instead of 200, there would have been
more than .sufficient volunteers, though I fear our
Colonial resources in the “ War Office ” line would
be quite unable to equip such a number, as no
stock is kept on hand ; even for these 200, all the

' For subiriLssion to the Queen. Lord Edward Clinton, son of
the 5th Duke of Newcastle, was Master of the Household 1894-1901.

414 QUEEN THANKS DOMINIONS [chap, xv

clothes and saddlery had to be made, and in some
cases the material even to be manufactured, so a
fortnight is not a bad record to have sent off all com-
plete under these cireumstances.

I have found my time here a busy time, always
fully occupied, and am glad to say have had no serious
difficulties with my Ministers. The Premier, Mr.
Seddon, is a thorough Englishman ; and though this
Colony has certainly been a pioneer in some experi-
mental legislation under his guidance, stiU he never
forgets British interests, and is never tired of talking
about his Jubilee visit to London, and to Windsor.

. . . Believe me, yours sincerely, Ranfurly.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

24:ih Oct. (1899). — ^Mr. Chamberlain presents his
humble duty and begs to submit the following
message, to Canada and Austraha, for your Majesty’s
approval : “ Her Majesty the Queen desires me to
thank the people of her Dominion of Canada and the
people of her Colonies in Australia for their striking
manifestation of loyalty and patriotism in their volun-
tary offer to send troops to co-operate with her
Majesty’s Imperial Forces in maintaining her position
and the rights of British subjects in South Africa.
She wishes the troops ‘ Godspeed and a safe return.’ ”

This telegram, if despatched to-night, would reach
the Colonial contingent before they start.

[Telegram.] The Earl of Minto to Mr. Chamberlain.

25th Oct. 1899.— The people of Canada received
with sincere gratification the message from her Majesty
the Queen conveying her thanks for Canada’s contribu-
tion to the British troops now en route for South
Africa. The good wishes expressed by their Sovereign
for her Canadian troops will inspire them with deep
sentiments of loyalty and patriotism and with a
determination to sustain the reputation that Canadian

isgnl SIR R. ROLLER AT THE CAPE 415

Volunteers have earned in the past history of this
part of the EmpireP

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoeal, 2Qth Oct. 1899. — -Heard that General
Joubert had announced poor Sir William Symons’
death, which took place yesterday. We had hoped
he was recovering. Dreadfully grieved. The poor
wife was, it seems, to have started for South Africa in
two clays ! Also heard that General Yule had marched
into Ladysmith with his column, and had not been
molested. There had been exceptionally heavy rain,
but the men, though clone up, were in good spirits,
and only required rest.

The Government has had enormous majorities for
the money required for the war,

Uh Nov . — Received from Lord Lansdowne the first
telegrams from Sir Redvers Buller, from which I
quote the following extracts : “ Sir Redvers Buller
thinks he had better strike straight for Bloemfontein,
capital of the Orange Free State, but it will be more
than a month before we can do so. If Kimberley and
Ladysmith fall in the meantime he will be very sorry,
but he cannot help them.” In another telegram he
seems completely to have changed his mind. “ He
now considers he must reinforce Natal with one
division and send the other two to relieve Kimberley.
This will delay his advance, and he thinks he will
have to wait till January before commencing offensive
operations.” This does not sound very cheering.

Sir Bedvers Buller to Queen Victoria.

Cape Town, 7th Nov. 1899. — Sir Redvers Buller
presents his humble duty to the Queen. Sir Redvers
duly received the Queen’s telegrams, but he did not
telegraph as directed; he had unfortunately at the
time nothing but bad news to send, and that he
thinks always gets known soon enough. The situa-

1 Similar telegrams passed between tiic Governor of New South
Wales and the Queen a few days later, on the sailing of the first portion
of the New Soutli Wales continffcnt.

416 SAMOAN AGREEMENT SIGNED [chap, xv

tion at the Cape is, during the interval of waiting for
the arrival of troops, bad enough ; that it is not
worse is due to the gallantry of the British soldiers,
who have, as often before, just, as Sir Redvers hopes,
saved the situation. The troops in Natal have behaved
so gallantly that the enemy, who is believed to out-
number them by two to one, have not apparently dared
to separate their force and attack Pietermaritzburg,
which is practically at their mercy. It is hoped we shall
have sulhcicnt troops here in time to reinforce it.

In this Colony the main difficulty is the temper of
the Dutch population ; they are armed, and thoroughly
disaffected ; the English, on the other hand, are not
armed. Matters at present look as if it would be a
near thing whether we shall have sufficient troops in
time to so check the enemy’s advance through the
Colony or to check a rising in their favour. . . .

At the present moment the relief of Kimberley is
the paramount factor of the situation in Cape Colony.
Sir Redvers hopes to be in a position to attempt it
from Orange River Station, which is 570 miles from
Cape Town, in three weeks from now. Lord Methuen
will be in charge of the operation, and will have with
him the Brigade of Guards, and another composite
Brigade. ... Sir Redvers does not anticipate that
the force will meet with very serious difficulties. . . .

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Neues Palais, 9th Nov. 1899. — It is with sincere
pleasure that I have received the news of the signing
of the agreement about Samoa ^ between our Govern-
ments yesterday. I feel sure that this fact will help
to promote good feeling and peace between our two
countries. William I. R.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to the German Emperor.

Balmoeal, 9th Nov. 1899. — Many thanks for your
kind telegram. I am equally pleased at the con-
clusion of the Samoa arrangement.

* See Introductory Note to this chapter.

417

1890] BANDMASTERS GET COMMISSIONS

It is always ray great wish as well as that of my
Government to be on the most friendly terms with
Germany. V. R. I.

Notice in the London Gazette
Wak Oitice, lUti Nov. [1899].

The undermentioned Bandmasters, with tlie
honorary rank of Second Lieutenants, to be Band-
masters, with the rar\k of Second Lieutenants in the
Army : C. Godfrey, Royal Horse Guards ; I>. Zavertal,
Royal Artillery ; J. Sommer, Royal Engineers.

Sir Arthur Bigge''s endorsement :

\Qth Nov. 1899. At last ! ! ^

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 11th Nov. 1899. — Arrived at
Windsor a little before nine. It was a fine bright morn-
ing. Rested after breakfast, and at a quarter to one
drove down to the Cavalry Barracks >vith Beatrice and
Emily A. to inspect the composite Household Cavalry
regiment, which is going to South Africa. I was
received by a royal salute, and drove down the line,
the number of men, including officers, being nearly
600 . They were all in their khaki uniform, which seems
to be very practical. Colonel Nield, who commands
the whole, walked by the side of my carriage. I then
returned to the saluting point, and they all marched
past, after which they reformed in mass and advanced
quite close to my carriage. I then addressed them in
the following words : “I have asked you, who have
always served near me, to come here that I may take
leave of you before you start on your long voyage to
a distant part of my Empire, in whose defence your
comrades are now so nobly fighting. I know that you
will always do your duty to your Sovereign and
country wherever that duty may lead you, and I pray
God to protect you and bring you back safely home.”

Colonel Nield expressed his thanks for my gracious
‘ See above, pp. 390-1.

418 THE QUEEN AND THE WAR fciup, xv

words, which would never be forgotten by them all,
and I shook hands with him. He then presented all
the officers who came by, one by one, including DoUy
Teck and the young Duke of Roxburghe. The men
were all asked to give three cheers, but they gave
many more and would hardly stop. The royal salute
followed once more, and as I drove away the men
again cheered loudly.

I2th I'/ou,— Saw Lord Lansdowne, and talked over
everything with him. Lord Lansdowne spoke kindly
of Sir G. White, of the Deserves, and what was being
done for the wives and families, of the sad losses, in
fact, of everything connected with the war. Emily
A[mpthill], Lord and Lady Lansdowne, Victoria
G[rant], Bessie B[iddulph], Sir Frank Lascelles, Lord
Clarendon, the Bishop of Ripon, and Sir A. Bigge
dined. Lady Lansdowne talked a good deal to me
about the different poor ladies, about poor Lady
Symons, who had been ready to go out to her husband,
thinking he would recover, about Lady Louisa Egerton
and the loss of her son, of the many who had sent
out only sons and more than one, including herself.
Sir F. Lascelles spoke of William’s approaching visit,
and hoped all would go off well.

13th Wou.—Every moment telegrams keep coming,
announcing the arrival of troops at the Cape. It is
very encouraging. After tea I saw Lord Wolseley for
some little time. We went over everything concern-
ing the war. He said he felt much easier now, but had
been very airxious ten days ago. He was sure Lady-
smith would be able to hold out. He was delighted at
the way in which the Reserves had come up, as well as
the way in which the employers had helped in furnish-
ing the men. We lamented bitterly over the loss of so
many horses, and I made him promise to see that
everything possible was done in the ships for their
safety and comfort. But it is at best a great risk
transporting so many such a great distance by sea.
Talked of the wonderful subscriptions and help being
Set on foot everywhere in the country. After Lord

18991 THE CANADIAN CONTINGENT 419

Wolseley, I saw Lord Salisbury. I thought him better
than I had expected. We talked of most things, the
settlement of the Samoa affair with Germany, which
was a great thing.

16th Nov .^ — Saw Mr. Chamberlain just before
dinner. He seemed very hopeful about the pros-
pects of the war, but had received an unpleasant tele-
gram with the news that an armoured train had been
wrecked with 120 casualties. With regard to the Press
abroad, he deeply regretted the violent line it has
taken up against the war. He expressed his satisfac-
tion at the settlement of Samoa.

IQth Nov . — On coming home saw Lady White, wife
of Sir George White, who is besieged in Ladysmith.
She said my sympathy had been her greatest comfort,
and she knew it would be the same to her husband.
After tea had a long talk with the Bishop of Win-
chester on Church affairs.

The Earl of Minto to Queen Victoria.

GovEHsnvnsNT House, Ottawa, 12ih November 1809.

Madam, — I feel sure your Majesty woidd like to
hear of the departure of your Majesty’s Canadian
troops for South Africa. The contingent, as your
Majesty knows, sailed from Quebec on the 30th
October. The detachments composing it had been
gathered from all parts of Canada, even from the
Pacific coast, and were all assembled in Quebec by
Saturday, the 28th, a large proportion of them being
quartered in the Citadel, and I went to my own
quarters there to see them off. The Citadel, and
the city of Quebec, and all its surroundings are so
picturesque, and so full of historical associations,
that it would be impossible to imagine a place better
suited for such a rendezvous. On Sunday there was
service for the troops in the Cathedral, some 400
remaining for the sacrament, and the singing in which
the whole congregation joined, quite beautiful. That

‘ On the previous day the Queen had gone by train to Bristol,
where she was enthusiastically received, in order to open at CUfton a
Convalescent hospital buUt to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee.

TIT— 28

i20 KAISER ARRIVES AT WINDSOR [chap, xv

evening I gave a dinner in the Citadel to the senior
officers of the contingent, the Lieut. -Governor, the
Mayor, and others, and on Monday the troops assem-
bled on the Esplanade for inspection before marching
down to the Sardinian.

The Esplanade where the troops were drawn up is
just inside the walls of the town, close to the St. Louis
Gate, which is the main gate leading up to the Plains
of Abraham ; the ramparts were densely crowded with
people, and it was a lovely day, with a beautiful view
of the hills beyond the St. Lawrence in the background.
I inspected the troops, and then addressed them as
representing your Majesty, and called for three cheers
for your Majesty. It was one of the most impressive
sights I ever witnessed. Sir Wilfrid Laurier and
General Hutton also spoke, and the Mayor read a long
but very good address, in French and Enghsh ; the
contingent then marched down to the Sardinian, and
sailed about 4 p.m. in the midst of wild enthusiasm
and a salute of thirty-one guns from the Citadel.
The material of the contingent is excellent, and the
senior officers are carefully selected and capable.

But I can assure your Majesty that the despatch of
the Canadian troops has been sm’rounded by political
difficulties, and their being offered is due alone to the
enthusiastically expressed wish of the people of Canada,
which the Government submitted to with a very bad
grace, . . . Your Majesty’s humble and obedient
servant, Minto.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal,

Windsor Castle, 20th Nov. 1899. — Just before
two, William and Dona arrived, Bertie, Arthur, and
Georgia driving with him, and Lenchen, Beatrice, and
Louischen driving with her, William embraced me
most affectionately, and Dona presented her two boys,
August Wilhelm and Oscar. I then took them for a
moment to the Audience-room, before going in to
luncheon, to which George Cambridge and Lome
came. Alix, Lenchen, etc., took William and Dona to

1899] DEATH OF LADY SALISBURY 421

their rooms afterwards. Drove with Alix and May.
Had tea with William and Dona and Bertie and Alix
in the Audience-room.

Heard afterwards that poor Lady Salisbury had
died, I was greatly shocked, though I knew she was
in a hopeless condition.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Hatfield, ‘Mth Nov. 1899. — My dear wife died
this afternoon from failure of heart’s action. She
suffered no pain as far as we could see, I trust your
Majesty will excuse me during this week. Salisbury.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 21st Nov. 1899. — ^Darling
Vicky’s birthday. God grant that she may yet be
long spared to us, but her health makes me very
anxious. The accounts of dear Marie L[einingen] are
very bad, and leave one little hope. William went out
shooting. He had already been out riding quite
early. Louise and Lome arrived for luncheon. Drove
with Dona and Alix. It was very foggy.

Wilham came to me after tea, which Bertie and
Louise had taken with me. I had a long interesting
conversation with liim on all subjects. We first
spoke about his dear Mama’s health, which is not
satisfactory, then of the shocking tone of the German
Press and the shameful attacks on England, as well as
monstrous misrepresentations and lies about the war,
wliich he greatly deplores. But he says it is due to
the “ poison ” which Bismarck poured into the ears of
the people; that the latter had hated England, and
wished for an alhance with Russia. If he had not
sent liim away, he does not know what would have
happened, and he became even worse latterly in his
abuse, which his son continued. William himself
wishes for a better understanding with us.

There was a banquet in St. George’s Hall, which
looked very handsome. We sat down 144. Bertie

422 PRINCESvS ERNEST LEININGEN’S DEA’lll [cnAr. xv

gave out the healths of William and Dona, which was
followed by mine, proposed by William, after which
followed dear Vicky’s, proposed by Bertie. Wc went
into the Reception-room, and I spoke to a number of
the guests, including the Ambassadors, the Duke and
Duchess of Devonshire, Lord and Lady Lansdowne,
Lord Wolseley, Lord Roberts, etc. The last news of
dear Marie L[einingen] were as bad as possible. It was
all very painful for mc-

22«d Nov . — As soon as I got up Beatrice came to
me with the sad, though not unexpected, news that
beloved Marie L[einingen] had passed away during
the night. She was my most dear and intimate
friend, as well as beloved niece, an angel of goodness,
in whom I could always confide. Her dear visits
were such a pleasure and comfort to me, and she was
always ready to come when I needed a companion.
She was with me when my darhng Albert was taken
from me.^ I feel so terribly for poor Ernest and
Alberta. B eatrice and Louischen breakfasted with me.
Everyone so deeply grieved. Receiving many tele-
grams and letters. Out with Beatrice and Victoria
of Wales. In the afternoon drove with William and
his two charming boys. Eoggy and dull all day.

Mr. Balfour came to see William, being unable to
dine on account of his aunt Lady Salisbury’s death. I
saw him afterwards, and he seemed much pleased with
his interview. Spoke of his uncle, and he said he
felt sure any idea of his rething from public life was
quite out of the question. Dined alone with Ismay
b[outhampton] and Victoria G[rant] on account of
dear Marie. Saw Sir J. Fullerton a moment in the
corridor, as he was such a friend of dear Marie’s.
Spoke also a little about the new yacht. Arthur and
Beatrice came to wish me good night.

The Marquis oj Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Hatfield House, 22nd Nov. 1899, — Lord Salis-
bury with his humble duty most gratefully acknow-

' See Second Series, vol. i, p. 6.

1890] THE QUEEN AND COUNT BULOW

ledges the kind and sympathetic words of your
Majesty’s very gracious letter. He is deeply touched
with the language your Majesty has used as to his
beloved wife, and as to the deep affection which has
subsisted between her and him and their children.

We shall deeply cherish and preserve the expres-
sion of your Majesty’s fervent sympathy for us in our
deep sorrow.

I am deeply grateful to the Princess Henry for her
kind message.

Ecctractfi from the Queeti’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 23rd Nov. 1899. — William and
the gentlemen of the family went out shooting in the
park. Dona, Beatrice, and Louischen walked with
me. Took her to the Mausoleum. Feo Gleichen came
to luncheon. Drove with Alix and Louise. Still
the same dull weather.

Rather anxious about what may be happening
in the Transvaal, as we know that Lord Methuen is
advancing, and one dreads his being intercepted by
the Boers.

Saw Count Biilow for some little time after tea,
and was much pleased with him. He spoke most
sensibly and kindly, and appeared much distressed
at the bad feeling in Germany against us, which I said
was really most unfair and unreasonable, in which he
quite agreed. He was in despair about the Press,
which he said Avas most difficult to control, and spoke,
just as William did, of the immense harm Bismarck
had done by using all his influence to promote a bad
feeling towards England and seek a close alliance with
Russia, Avhen it ought to be just the reverse. He
spoke with the greatest attachment of Vicky, and how
much she Avished for a good understanding betAveen
Germany and England. Dined in the big Dining-room
with my guests, as I felt it my duty to do, but there
was no music. Sat in the Red Drawing-room after-
wards, and spoke to some of the people.

2Uh Nov , — Less fog-gy, but still no sunshine.

424 QUEEN AND KAISER TALK [chap, xv

Alix and Victoria left for Sandringham to prepare for
William’s visit there. To-day dear Marie L[einingen]
was laid to rest [at] Waldleiningen. I had a short
service in the Chapel at eleven, which was very
touching and beautiful, and to which all the family,
including William and Dona, came. He afterwards
went with Bertie and Arthur to Blenheim, returning
in the afternoon. Went out for a short while with
Dona and Beatrice.

WilHam came to see me quite late, and further
discussed several of the topics we had mentioned in
our last conversation. We spoke again about a good
understanding between our two countries being most
desirable, and he promised to do all he could to
promote it. As regards Samoa, the settlement of
which was such a great thing, he said it really was a
“ sentiment ” on the part of Germany, and that there
was a great deal of this in her feelings, which was
misunderstood here. William praised Sir F. Lascelles
very much, and said what a fine position he had made
for himself, and how much he was liked, also Emma
Cavendish.^ Dinner like yesterday. Edward Saxe-
Weimar came, whom I have not seen for a long time,
as he has been ill for over a year. Did not talk long
after dinner, as there was some music for William —
a Welsh Choir, which sang quite beautifully.

Received the following report from Lord Methuen
about the battle of Belmont, which took place yester-
day : “ Wounded going on well. Over 50 prisoners
taken, including German Commandant and 6 Field
Cornets. Unable to estimate Boer losses ; prisoners
say yesterday’s attack was a surprise, and the only
beating they have had. A large amount of corres-
pondence secured. Reservists have done well. Colonel
Pole-Carew replaces Fetherstonhaugh in command of
the 9th Brigade.”

‘ Lady Edward Cavendish, widow of Lord Edward Cavendish and
mother of the present Duke of Devonshire, was Sir Frank Lascelles’
sister ; and, now that Lady Lascelles was dead, was acting as hostess
at the British Embassy in Berlin.

1899] KHALIFA DEFEATED AND SLAIN 425

Nov. — ^Breakfasted all together in the Oak-
room. At about three William and Dona took leave
of me, evidently very pleased with their visit. They
would not let me go downstairs. Louise, Beatrice, and
Lenchen saw them off at the station.

Received to-day the great and satisfactory news
from Lord Cromer and Lord Kitchener himself that
Sir R. Wingate had had a big engagement with the
Khalifa. The Dervishes were completely defeated,
and the Khalifa was killed, with a great many of his
Emirs. This, I hope, means the end of Mahdism, and
I think it is far the best way it could end.

[Telegram,] Lord Kitchener to (lueen Victoria.

Khahtoum, 25th Nov. 1899. — Lord Kitchener pre-
sents his humble duty, and begs to thankyour Majesty
for the gracious message received, which he has trans-
mitted to Sir R. Wingate. All the wounded are well
cared for and doing well, with one exception. The
Khalifa’s remains were respectfully buried by the
survivors of his bodyguard. Sir R. Wingate reports
having taken nine thousand men, women, and children.
Sirdar.

The German Emperor and Empress to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Sandringham, 26th Nov. 1899. — We arrived, after
a pleasant journey, at Sandringham. Had a nice
evening with music, and are now going to Church.
We thank you once more, dear Grandmama, for all
your kindness. We shall always look back with
pleasure to our stay at Windsor. William, Victoria.

[Telegram.] The Duke oj York to Queen Victoria.

Liverpool Street Rail., 2Uh Nov. 1899. — Have
just taken leave of William and Dona at Port Victoria.
They wished me to again express to you how grateful
they were for all your kindness, and how delighted
they have been with their visit to England.

I am just returning to Sandringham. George,

426

QUEEN AND THE GRENADIERS [chap, xv

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 29ih Nov. 1899. — At a quarter to
twelve drove to the Infantry Barracks with Lenchen
and Beatrice, Thora and Louise following with Ismay
S[outhainpton], the equerries on horseback. The
battalion of Grenadiers was drawn up without arms.
I drove down the line, and then they formed up near
my carriage. I addressed them as follows : “I wish
to congratulate you on the splendid conduct of the
Brigade of Guards. I am very proud of them, but I
grieve very much for the sad losses, and hope the
wounded will recover well.” After this they moved
off, having given three cheers. They were all very
fine men and wearing the Soudan medal. AU the
wives of the Grenadiers, as well as of the Life Guards
and Reservists, were brought up for me to see, and I
said how much I felt for them, and hoped their husbands
might come home safely. Many of them were crying
bitterly. There were a great many babies. I am glad
to say they are all being very kindly looked after.

[Extract.] Lady Edward Churchill to Miss Cochrane.

2nd Dec, 1899. — . . . Never was anything more
appreciated [the Queen’s visit to the Barracks] ; they
were so unselfish, several said to me, “ It is hard for
her [the Queen] to have all this to bear.” One came
back and repeated, “ The Queen said she was sorry for
us, and she was ; tears were in her eyes, God bless her.”

Two with babies hung back and did not go up with
the rest. I went and asked why. “We should like
to go, but don’t think we ought, because my husband’s
active service hasn’t begun, he only left this morning,”
one replied sobbing ; and the other, “ My husband is
up at the front, but he’s only in the Ambulance Corps,
and it ain’t quite so dangerous.” Needless to say,
they both went up to the carriage.

One rather rough woman on returning said to the
rest ; “ Well, I hope my husband won’t be killed, but
our Queen is worth fighting for.’’

1899]

SETTLEMENT OF NIGERIA

127

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, Isi Dec. 1899. — ^Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to submit for your Majesty’s approval the name
of Sir Ralph Moor, K.C.M.G., to be High Commis-
sioner of Southern Nigeria ; and that of Colonel
Frederick John Dealtry Lugard,^ C.B., D.S.O., to be
High Commissioner of Northern Nigeria.

Arrangements which will shortly be submitted for
the approval of your Majesty in Council have been
made for taking over from the Royal Niger Co., on
the 1st January next, the administration of tlieir
territories in West Africa, and it is proposed that the
Southern portion of these territories should be added
to the Niger Coast Protectorate to form a new Pro-
tectorate of Southern Nigeria ; while the Northern
portion will in future be known as the Protectorate
of Northern Nigeria.

Sir Ralph Moor has been since 1889 your Majesty’s
Commissioner and Consul-General for the Niger
Coast Protectorate, and is an able officer who may be
relied on to carry out effectively the increased duties
which will devolve upon him.

Colonel Lugard is an officer of great distinction
and experience in African affairs. He has served both
in East and West Africa, and is well fitted in Mr.
Chamberlain’s opinion to fill the post for which his
name is now humbly submitted to your Majesty.

[Telegrams.] Lord Methuen to Queen Victoria.

Modder River, 1st Dec. 1899. — The division
thanks your Majesty for your gracious message.

The victory was entirely due to the gallant con-
duct of the troops, and considering the strength of
the position, I am thankful the loss was not greater,
many of the casualties being slight. Count Gleichen
progressing favourably.

2nd Dec. — In reply to your Majesty’s gracious

1 Now Lord Lucard.

428

A SIXTH AND SEVENTH DIVISION [chap, xv

enquiry, I shall be fit for duty 6th December. The
wounded are hy now at Wynberg doing well, the
health of the troops excellent, and the whole Division
in high spirits because of your Majesty’s many kind
enquiries.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War OmcE, Srd December 1899.

My DEAn Bioge, — ^Your note of yesterday. I
think it quite possible that her Majesty’s supposition
is correct, and that Buller at some moments takes an
“ over-gloomy ” view of the situation. But it is
undoubtedly full of anxiety, and a reverse at any
point might have serious consequences.

As to troops, we are preparing the Sixth Division
as fast as we can. Buller has, you will observe, only
said that it may be wanted if the opposition continues,
but we shall assume that he will want it. If more
still are required, or likely to be required, we have
told him that he can have a seventh division. We
have also telegraphed to him explaining how we pro-
pose to meet his request for heavy guns. We had
fortunately already put 4*7 guns in hand, and some
howitzer batteries should be arriving at this moment.

I am afraid the proposal to blockade Delagoa Bay
presents great political difficulties. Mr. Balfour,
with whom I discussed this matter yesterday, went to
Hatfield in the evening, and was to ascertain Lord
Salisbury’s views. Yours sincerely, Lansdowne.

Sir Reginald Wingate to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Cairo, Sunday, Zrd December 1899.

My dear Bigge, — I have been so rushed that the
long letter I intended to write to you must be post-
poned for a few days, and this is only a line to catch
the post to tell you how deeply grateful I am for the
Queen’s most gracious and highly prized telegrams.
I cannot tell you how honoured I felt by her Majesty’s
most gracious words. The first telegram reached me
as I was riding back to the river from the Khalifa’s
camp, and I at once sent it on to Lewis to publish to

429

1890] SIR R. WINGATE AND THE KHALIFA

the troops. Indeed, the Queen’s deep solicitude for
us and the interest she has taken in all that has
happened has gratified and rejoiced us all more than I
can express. You have, my dear old friend, been the
interpreter so often of my ill-expressed sentiments,
that I would ask you once more to offer my most
humble duty and deep gratitude to her Majesty.

The Sirdar also showed me the telegram from the
Duke and Duchess of Connaught, and I beg you will
offer to them also my heartfelt thanks.

The way the whole of the dervishes fell into our
hands makes me feel as the Arabs say — that their day
had come, and that it was arranged by Higher Powers
than us poor mortals ! I little dreamt, when I left
the river to hunt Fedd, that three days later the
Khalifa and all his Emirs would be either killed or
prisoners in our hands.

The troops, officers and men, behaved splendidly,
and played up to a man in spite of incessant night
marching, scarcity of water, and little or no rest ; there
was never a murmur, and no Commander could have
been [more] loyally supported than I was, but I must
tell you aU about it later. The official report to the
S[ecretary of] S[tate] for War goes home to-day, and
you will no doubt see it. I am more than grateful to
the Sirdar for having given me this chance. I hustled
back because of an impending domestic event, and on
my arrival at Khartoum last Sunday I was apprised
by wire that my wife in Cairo had presented me with
a small daughter, born the day after the fight. Do
you not think I might call her “ Victoria ” ? The
Queen’s second telegram after the victory came almost
at the same time.

Please offer my most humble duty and homage to
her Majesty, and with all kind remembrances to you
and Lady Bigge, ever yours, F. R. Wingate.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, Uh Dec. 1899. — I received the
American surgeons and nurses who are going out to

430 NAVAL BRIGADES IN SOUTH AFRICA [chap, xv

South Africa in the hospital ship, which the American
ladies in England have fitted out.

Mr. Goschen to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Confidential. Admirailty, WniTHUAii, 7/A December 1809,

Mv DEAE, Sir Arthur, — As to the Naval Brigades
sent inland : I can assure you that I quite agree with
the feelings of her Majesty on the subject of the
employment of bluejackets so far from the base, and
the Admiralty and Admiral Harris at Cape Town have
been anxious to keep the landing of our men within
the narrow limits. But the pressure has been too
great. The emergency was so serious, especially
before the arrival of the mass of our troops, that the
Admiral could not refuse to comply with the urgent
applications of the military authorities, and even when
more troops came, it appears to have been thought
that the services of a Naval Brigade could not be
spared.

Concurrently with this, I have no doubt that the
pressure of naval officers to be allowed to go to the
front was extreme, their enthusiastic desire to be
allowed to see some fighting was doubtless fostered
by their remembering the part taken by Naval
Brigades in India, the Crimea, and indeed generally
where fighting has been prolonged. I have seen a
fiurious letter from Captain Lambton ^ when, on \h.e. first
Naval Brigade being sent inland, he was not allowed
by the Admiral to take command. “ To rot here in
inactivity,” and the like.

But with all this, my naval colleagues and myself
fully realise the drawbacks, the temporary disable-
ment of ships and loss of life amongst a body of highly
trained sailors, whose services are so invaluable,
which follow from sending them to fight inland.

Yesterday we had a telegram from the Admiral,
saying that General Buller had asked for eight more
naval 4*7 guns with men to man them. At such a
moment, when so much depends upon the weight of

‘ Afterward:, Admiral Sir HedwortH lUeii'".

431

1899] THE QUEEN AND MR. ASQUITH

the blow to be struck, how could we refuse ? Yours
sincerely, George J. Goschen.

Mr. Asquith to Sir Arthur Bigge.

20 Cavendish Squaiie, 9 ih Becmber 1899.

Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, — The Bishop of Win-
chester has been good enough to transmit to me your
kind letter of the 7th to him, conveying her Majesty’s
gracious approval of opinions recently expressed by
me on the subject of the war.^

If a fit opportunity should present itself, I should
be greatly obliged to you if you could make her
Majesty aware of my profound and humble acknow-
ledgment of this most welcome recognition of my
sincere and strongly felt sentiments. Believe me,
yours very faithfully, H. H. Asquith.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Windsor Castle, 9th Dec. 1899. — ^Thanks for your
letter. You do not mention the Blockade of Delagoa
Bay which Sir R. Buller again urges so strongly.
Think everything should be done to shorten the war
and prevent the loss of life, which is so distressing.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

IQth Dec. 1899. — ^Humble duty. We are com-
municating with General Buller as to blockade of
Delagoa Bay. It is an accepted rule of international
law that a State cannot blockade any port unless it
declares war on the country to whom the port belongs.
If we blockaded Delagoa Bay without declaring war
on Portugal, France, Germany, and America would
refuse to allow us to stop their ships. Blockade is
therefore impossible ; but we hope to attain the same
results by carefully searching every vessel that comes
in for contraband of war.

' In her Journal for 20th November the Queen recorded that one
of her ladies had read, to her “ a very fine patriotic speech of Mr.
Asquith’s.”

482

THE “BLACK WEEK”

[chap. XV

Esctracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, IQth Dec. 1899. — GoL the news
of what General Gatacre calls a “serio7is reverse.”^
He says he was misled as to the position of the enemy,
and has had to retire with loss. It is most deplorable.

11th Dec . — Saw Sir A. Bigge on his return from
London, whither he has gone by my desire to see Lord
Wolseley and Lord Lansdowne, and found the latter
depressed and the former much annoyed with the
Generals, who he considers have not done what they
were advised to do, but have attacked difficult and
inaccessible positions, instead of trying to outflank
the enemy. Lord Wolseley wanted to know what I
thought about it aU.

We also discussed whether Bertie should resign the
Presidency of the French Exhibition, on account of
the atrocious personal attacks on me in the French
Press. He is himself most indignant, and only wishes
to do what I desire. But I have not yet decided
what it would be advisable to do in the matter.

Vith Dec . — Saw Mr. Balfour before dinner. Talked
of almost everytliing of importance, especially about
the French Exhibition and Bertie’s position. Lord
Sahsbury was of opinion it would be better for him
not to resign the Presidency, as the Government was
friendly towards us, and Bertie had accepted the post
by their invitation and with the approval of our
Government.

lUh Dec , — Received the annexed distressing
telegram, of another unsuccessful engagement^ with
heavy loss. Went to the Mausoleum and took a turn in
Frogmore garden. In the afternoon drove with Cecilia
D. and Judy H. When I came home heard, to my
great regret, that General Wauchope, who com-
manded the Iligliland Brigade, and whom I knew very
well, was killed in this unfortunate engagement of
Lord Methuen’s. Feel very anxious.

IMh Dec . — ^Already thirty-eight years since that

^ At Stormlierg - The battle of Matiersfontein.

1899] WANTED— GOOD GENERALS 438

dreadful catastrophe which crushed and changed my
life, and deprived me of my guardian angel, the best of
husbands and most noble of men ! The news in the
papers is very sad, and there is a confirmation of the
report of Lord Winchester’s and Colonel Downman’s
deaths, the latter a very nice man, who commanded
the Gordon Highlanders, and had dined with me at
Balmoral in September, after Bertie had given colours
to the regiment. Received a list of the casualties.
The Highlanders lost awfully, but I am glad young
Freddie Kerr, who commanded my guard, and of
whom I took leave at Ballater, escaped. Feel very
low and anxious about the war.

Viscouni Wolseley to Sir Arthur Bigge,

Waii Oi'I'ICC, 14th December 1899.

My deah Bigge, — . . . Generals, like poets, are
“ born, not made.” I can only send out the best men
I know of. Subject to her Majesty’s approval, I have
selected Colonel MacDonald, who distinguished himself
at Omdurman and saved Kitchener during his final
advance upon that place, to command the Highland
Brigade vice my poor dear friend Wauchope, the
bravest and best of soldiers, and the firmest of friends.
In him the Queen has lost one of her most loyal and
faithful of subjects. EQs place is Niddrie, near Edin-
burgh, and his poor wife is now there. I telegraphed
to her father to break the news to her. She was a
very pretty woman, and the most devoted of wives.

The 5th Division has now all left, and I begin with
the 6th Division on Saturday, when and on Sunday one
brigade will be on board, the other brigade to follow
as soon as ships are ready. The 7th Division will be
at once mobilised and prepared for embarkation, and
I hope will be sent off quickly. For every battahon
we mobilise a battalion of Mihtia is called out, so we
shall soon have a very large force of Militia under
arms. As each battalion so mobilised receives from
200 to 300 regulars into it, these battalions are strong,
"ud will ^non be made efficient. soon es the 7tb

484 QUEEN’S CONFIDENCE IN GEN. DULLER [chap, xv

Division embarks we call out the 8th Division ; after
that we can do little except by sending Militia bat-
talions abroad to take the place now occupied by Line
battalions, and in that way freeing enough battalions
of the Line to form a 9th Division in England.

What we are now most in want of is good
Generals. . . .

I have many young men coming on, but the old-
fashioned lot who were promoted by seniority before
I came into office are mostly poor creatures as regards
knowledge of war. Very sincerely yours, Wolseley.

I wish I were in South Africa myself. Our Army
all over Lhe world is not strong enough for the work
it has to do and the responsibilities it has to fulfil,

\Copy?[ Queen Victoria to Sir Redvers Buller.

Windsor Castle, 15th Dec. 1899. — The Queen
thanks Sir Redvers Buller for his interesting letter of
the 7th November.

We are naturally terribly anxious, and the sad
events of the last days grieved us very much. She
fears there have been so many rash and dangerous
night marches. Many valuable lives have been lost,
and we are all deeply grieved and troubled for our near
and dear ones.

But the Queen Empress has great confidence in Sir
R. Buller, and she feels sure that he will retrieve the
sad failures of brave men, but who seem, alas ! not to
have been [as] wise and prudent as they ought ? As for
the Queen’s dear brave soldiers, she is proud of them,
and the loss of so many lives is a real grief to her.

May God protect Sir Redvers and those with him,
and give us good news !

The Queen had the pleasure of seeing Lady Audrey
on the 12th, who is doing admirable work among the
soldiers’ families.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 16th Dec. 1899. — It was foggy
early, but then became very fine. When I came to
breakfast received very sad and disappointing news

1899] BATTLE OF COLENSO 43S

of Sir R. Buller having been unable to cross the Tugela
river, and having been obliged to abandon 10 guns.^
We could think of little else. To our great satisfac-
tion heard Christie was “ well and fit, after a very
tr 5 dng day.” Received a very unsatisfactory tele-
gram from the War Office, sent by Sir R. Buller from
Chieveley Camp, 15th December, 11.15 p.m., saying
the following :

My failure to-day raises a serious question. Do not think
I am strong enough now to relieve White. Colenso is a fortress,
which, if not taken in a rush, could only be taken by siege. No
water within 8 miles of point of attack, and in this weather that
exhausts infantry. Place fully entrenched. Not a Boer or a gun
seen by us all day, but fire brought to bear was very heavy. Our
infantiy quite willing to fight, but absolutely exhausted by
great heat. My view is, I ought to let Ladysmith go, and let
time help by getting a good position for defence of S. Natal.
Consider we were in face of 20,000 men to-day, who had advantage
both in arms and position. They admit having suffered severely,
but my men have not seen a dead Boer, which dispirits them.
My losses not very heavy ; could have made them heavier, but
result would have been the same. The moment I failed to get
on the rim, I was beaten. Feel now I cannot relieve Ladysmith
with my available force, and best thing I can suggest is to occupy
defensive position and fight it out in a country better suited to
our tactics.

Talked for a long time to Sir A. Bigge about this
telegram, and desired him to cypher to Lord Lans-
downe that I thought it was quite impossible to aban-
don Ladysmith. When I returned to my room
[after dinner] Sir A. Bigge came in to read a letter
which had just come from Lord Lansdowne. This
explained that the Government had not for a moment
thought of agreeing to that proposal about Ladysmith.
He enclosed a copy of the answer which has been sent
to Sir R. Buller, after consultation with Lord Wolseley.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Sir Bedvers Buller.
[Cypher Telegram.']

War Office, IQth Bee. 1899. — ^Your telegram No.
87 cypher. Her Majesty’s Government regard aban-

^The battle of Colenso.

iTi — 29

436 LORD ROBERTS TO COMMAND [chap, xv

donmcnt and consequent surrender of White’s force
as a national disaster of the greatest magnitude. We
would urge you to devise another attempt to relieve it,
not necessarily by way of Colenso, making use, if you
think well, of additional troops now arriving in South
Africa.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, I7th Dec. 1899. — Saw Sir A,
Bigge shortly before dinner. He had seen both Lord
Lansdowne and Lord Wolscley, also Bertie. He said
there had been a Cabinet yesterday, at which the
feeling had been unanimous that Ladysmith should
on no account be given up. They had been much
astonished at the proposal. Sir E.. BuUer had tele-
graphed rather crossly to Lord Wolseley for having
suggested Sir G, White should come out and help him,
saying that if he thought so he had better come out
and do it himself.

Sir A. Bigge then said he had something to tell me,
which would surprise me, viz. that at yesterday’s
Cabinet it had been decided to send out Lord Roberts,
and Lord Kitchener as Chief of his Staff, and they knew
they would be ready to go, but they had not yet told
Lord Wolseley ! ! This latter I thought very extra-
ordinary, but also very wrong that they had not told
me first. It is not intended to supersede Sir Redvers,
but it is too much for him, and it is therefore thought
advisable to have another General of very high rank
to direct the whole.

Have settled not to leave for Osborne till after
Christmas, owing to the present state of affairs.
Desired Sir A. Bigge to write to Lord Lansdowne my
approval of the two appointments, though at the
saine time my surprise at the way in which the whole
thing has been done, Cecilia D[owne], Victoria G[rant],
the Dean and MaryEliot, Colonel Legge, Colonel David-
son, and Mr. Arthur Benson dined. The latter is the
son. of the late Archbishop, and Charlie was in his
house at Eton.

1899J WITH LORD KITCHENER AT HIS SIDE

487

Viscount Wolseley to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Wab Oi-bice, London, S.W., Itth December 1899. 6 p,m.

My dear Bigge, — I have just returned from seeing
Lord Lansdowne, who told me that the Defence Com-
mittee of the Cabinet which sat yesterday decided to
send out Lord Roberts as C.-in-C. to the Cape of Good
Hope, with Lord Kitchener as his Chief of the Staff.

In justice to myself I think the Queen should know
that this decision has been arrived at without any
reference to me or any previous knowledge on my
part that it was in contemplation. I can only add
that, whilst I deeply regret the supersession of Duller,
whom I consider by far the most fitted of our Generals
to deal with the present military situation in South
Africa, I realise that the Government must recom-
mend to her Majesty what in their judgment is best.

And whilst I feel strongly the fact that such an
important military step has. been taken without any
consultation with me as Commander-in-Chief, the
Queen may rest assured that at the present crisis I
shall allow no personal considerations to interfere
with my endeavour to serve her and the nation as
best I may. Believe me to be, very sincerely yours,
Wolseley.

Sir Reginald Wingate to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Caibo, IZth December 1899.

My dear Bigge, — It is impossible for me to ex-
press to you with what feeling of heartfelt gratitude
and devotion my wife and I read that most gracious
message in which her Majesty has so highly honoured
us and our little daughter.

I do not imagine any Sovereign in the world is so
dearly loved and honoured as our Queen, and it is by
such gracious acts as these that she so endears herself
to her humble subjects. Cairo, as you know, is full
of foreigners, and many of them are far from Anglo-
phile, but when the Queen’s gracious solicitude in
becoming the godmother of our small “ Victoria

4.88 WHY THE QUEEN WAS SO LOVED [chap, xv

Catherine ” became known, it seemed to bring home
to them how deep-rooted and genuine is the afiection
(if I may use the term) of her subjects for our most
beloved Queen ; and many a foreigner said to me,
“ Now we can understand how it is that your Queen
is so beloved ; it is by such kind and thoughtful acts
that she has become, so to speak, part of the lives of
her people.” You can imagine what a delight it is to
hear such remarks, for one longs to prove to these
people, who are so constantly criticising our actions
and whose ideas are so republican, that the strength
of England is the loyalty and devotion of its people
to her most gracious Majesty. I long to pour out my
heart in feelings of the deepest gratitude for this most
highly prized flavour. The good news has done more
than anything else to hasten my wife’s recovery, and
it is such an inexpressible joy to us both to feel that
we are so honoured in actually having the Queen as
our little daughter’s godmother, that we can scarcely
realise our good fortune ; and I beg you once more, my
dear Bigge, to lay at her Majesty’s feet my most
humble devotion and gratitude for a favour which I
appreciate more than anything which could have
befallen me, . . .

I expect all this South African trouble is giving you
a great deal of work, and I do trust our beloved Queen
is not feeling greatly distressed ; all is sure to come
right in the end. . , . Ever yours, E. R. Wingate.

Sir Charles Scott to Sir Arthur Bigge.

St. Petehsbubg, 17th December 1809.

Dear Bigge, — I safely received your letter of the
11th on the 15th inst., and I had an opportunity to-day
of delivering the Queen’s letter in person to the
Emperor, who was graciously pleased to grant me
audience at Tsarskoe.

His Imperial Majesty said that he would send his
reply to the Queen’s letter to me for safe transmission
through the Embassy.

He was greatly pleased by the kind messages to

439

1899] TSAR’S SYMPATHY WITH BRITAIN

himself and the Empress with which the Queen had
charged me, and spoke with deep feeling of his devo-
tion to her Majesty, and of his sincere sympathy and
friendly feelings in this hour of trial. Yours very
truly, Charles S. Scott.^

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, IBth Dec. 1899.— Heard with
deep regret that Lord Roberts’s son, who had been
dangerously wounded,® has died. He was his poor
parents’ only son, a very distinguished young man.

Saw Mr. Balfour, whom I had sent for, before
dinner. He expressed very great regret and astonish-
ment that the appointments of Lord Roberts and Lord
Kitchener had not been submitted to me first. What
had compelled the Cabinet to do what it had done
was the fact that their confidence in Sir Redvers
Buller had been somewhat shaken by his extraordin-
ary proposal to abandon Ladysmith, which was too
awful to contemplate.

Talked over the war in general, the mistakes that
had been made, and the Generals ; of Lord Roberts’s
extraordinary activity and good health.® Mr. Balfour
said that the feeling in the country was quite wonder-
ful, everybody volunteering to go out. There was a

’ Simultaneously Sir Charles Scott had sent a despatch to Lord
Salisbury, in which he said :

“ The Emperor gave me lengthened audience to-day, and expressed
his deepest sympathy with the Queen and nation on the losses sustained
hy our brave troops. He desired the Queen to be assured that he was
animated by the most friendly feelings to us in this hour of trial, and
that nothing was farther from his thoughts than to take any advantage
of our difficulties or to countenance any step likely to Increase them.
He begged her Majesty’s Government to discredit entirely any reports
of Russian projects likely in anyway to conflict with our interests, and
he deplored the hostile tone of the Russian Press, and said he hoped to
effect a change in its tone, Hk Majesty said that he knew of no
question between our two countries which was not either satisfactorily
settled, or in tlie way of settlement, and Russia had no object in raising
any new question. His Ministers had correctly interpreted his views
when assuring me that there ought to he no conflict of interests between
us anywhere impossible of settlement, as he desired frank and friendly
discussion and exchange of confidence,”

* At the battle of Colenso. ® He was sixty-seven.

440 TRANSPORT OF REINFORCEMENTS [chap, xv

certain number of people who had bought up all the
Australian horses they could get to send them out to
South Africa at their own expense.

He told me he had had a very satisfactory conver-
sation with Count Ptlckler, who insisted on seeing bim
himself, and conveyed the following message from
Count Biilow, that his speech had been misinterpreted,
and that he wished to assure our Government that he
(Count B.) was most anxious to be on the best of terms
with England, and that the German Government
would never tolerate any combination against England.’-

[Telegram.] Lord and Lady Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Kingsbridge, Dublin, 18th Dec. 1899.— We are
both deeply grateful for your Majesty’s gracious
telegrams and highly valued sympathy. Our loss is
grievous, but our boy died the death he would have
chosen. Lord and Lady Roberts.

Mr. Goschen to Sir Arthur Bigge.

■WraTEHALL, ADinEAiTY, 19th December 1899.

Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, — ^The Queen may rest
assured that everything that can be done is being
done, regardless of cost, to secure as fast ships as are
suitable for the service, and are available for the
transport of reinforcements to the Cape, and to make
such arrangements as involve the least possible delay.
This is, and has been, my chief anxiety during the
past week.

The Press from the beginning set up an incorrect
and impossible standard for the time in which trans-
ports could reach the Cape, taking the fastest trip of
the fastest ship under the best conditions, instead of
an average of what good and available and suitable
ships could do.

You cannot run 7,000 miles continuously at as uni-

‘ It is of this conversation between Queen Victoria and Mr. Balfour
that Lady Gwendolen Cecil, in her lAfc of Lord Salisbury (vol. iii, p. 191),
tells the story that her Majesty cut short her Minister’s opening refer-
ences to the di.sasters of the “ black week ” by saying : “ Please
understand that there is no one depressed in this house ; we are not
interested in the possibilities of defeat ; they do not exist.”

1899] GENERAL BULLER ON HIS SUPERSESSION 4*M

form and high a speed as you can cross the Atlantic ;
nor are all the fastest ships so constructed as to be
able to carry what we want. There are considerations
of coaling capacity, too, to be reckoned with.

I only make these remarks in case the Queen’s
message to me should have been occasioned by any
impression on her Majesty’s part that we at the
Admiralty had not been as keenly alive as anybody
else to the immense importance of the rapid despatch
of troops. It is a much more difficult process than
the public imagine.

When the bill comes to be paid, it will be very
apparent that no question of cost has played much
part in our arrangements. Yours very truly,
George J. Goschen.

Viscount Wolseley to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War Office, IQth December 1899.

My dear Bigge, — This is merely a letter to the
Queen, thanldng her for her gracious letter to me.
Believe me to be, very sincerely yours, Wolseley.

P.S. — Not a word yet from Buller about his super-
session.^ I do hope he may have won a brilliant
victory before Roberts arrives to supersede him.

The Duke of Connaught to Colonel Davidson.
Private, Melbusy, Dohchesteb, IQth December 1899.

My dear Davidson, — I return you the copy of
Lord Wolseley’s letter with many thanks. I think
it very derogatory to the C.-in-C.’s position that he
should never have heard even a word nor been in any
way consulted with regard to the important appoint-
ment of Lord Roberts to the Command-in-Chief in

I Sir Redveis Buller 'wrote confldentiaUy to Lord Lansdowne from
Frere Camp, 20tli December :

“ If I may be allowed to say so, I entirely agree ■with the reasons
that have guided the action of her Majesty’s Government. 1 have for
some time been convinced that it is impossible for any one man to
direct active military operations in two places distant 1,300 miles from
each other. . . . Lord Lansdowne is kind enough to suggest that tlie
decision may be distasteful to me, but I trust that any decisions intended
for the interests of the Empire will always be acceptable to me.”

442 PRINCE OP WALES AND THE WAR [chap, xv

South Africa, The telegram will have told you that
I was very much startled at your informing me that
the Queen had told Bigge to write to Lord Lansdowne
expressing H.M.’s wish that I should be appointed to
succeed Lord Roberts in the command in Ireland. I
can only imagine that this is wished so as to preclude
my going to South Africa. Both Lords Lansdowne
and Wolseley are aware of my great wish to be sent
out there, as I personally saw the Secretary of State
yesterday on the subject, and the C.-in-C. I have seen
several times, besides writing to him from Abergeldie
and from Bagshot. I also telegraphed to Lord
Roberts asking him to support my application. You
will readily and fully understand that any home com-
mand at the present moment is very distasteful to me.
The United Kingdom will be thoroughly denuded of
staff and troops, and the importance of a home com-
mand at the present moment is nil, and nowhere more
so than in Ireland. I have written all this, as I think
that both you and Bigge should know what my feelings
really are. Believe me, yours very sincerely, Aethhr.

P.S. — I am very glad that the Queen has made up
her mind not to go so far away as Osborne at the
present moment.

The Prince of Wales to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Hall Baen, BBACONSriELB, IQih December 1890,

My deab Bigge, — Many thanks for sending me
Wolseley ’s letter to read, which is a very proper one.
I do not see how the Government could do otherwise
than send out Lord Roberts. It will be a popular
appointment, though of course it means the super-
session of Buller, but the latter has brought it on
himself.

I am glad Downe goes out as A.D.C., as it was a
great shame leaving him “ out in the cold.” Lord
Kitchener is sure to be most useful, and I suppose
Wingate will succeed him as Sirdar.

There is but one opinion that the Queen is so right
to remain over Xmas at Windsor. I wish my brother

443

1899] DUKE OF CONNAUGHT FOE. Q.M.G. ?

could go out in some capacity ; it will be his military
ruin if he does not.

I have kept a key for the despatch boxes. From
yours very sincerely, Albert Edward,

Mr. Balfour to Sir Arthur Bigge.
Confidential. lO Downing Stbeet, IQth December 1899,

My dear Bigge, — In the course of my interview
with Lord Lansdowne this morning I mentioned the
idea of the Duke of Connaught taking the Quarter-
master-Generalship while Evelyn Wood went to
Ireland. The suggestion was received with something
like dismay ; and on reflection I think you will agree
that Lord Lansdowne’s alarm is justified. The most
hardly strained wheel in our administrative machine
at the present moment is the Quartermaster-General’s
Department. It is responsible for feeding a great
army 7,000 miles from its base ; and with each in-
crease of that army the difficulties increase also. I
am told that the present occupant of the office is doing
extremely well, but to dispossess him at the present
juncture, and to bring in a man who, however able,
must learn his business, would be to run a very grave,
and quite unnecessary, risk. If a breakdown occurs
anywhere, it will probably be in this department. Do
not let us increase the risk of so serious a catastrophe.

As regards Ireland, the Prime Minister writes to
me that he thinks the Duke would make an excellent
appointment ; but please do not mention this until
Lord Lansdowne has had time to consider the matter.
Personally, I hope he may come to the same conclusion.
Yours sincerely, Arthur James Balfour.

[Telegram.] Sir Redvers Buller to Queen Victoria.

Frere Camp, 20th Dec. 1899. — The gracious mes-
sage of your Majesty is being conveyed individually
to all wounded. All wounded officers are progressing
favourably, and other wounded doing well, with two
or three exceptions, who are holding their own. All
wounded are extremely comfortable, and are accoro-

444 KAISER’S XMAS WISHES [chap, xv

modatcd in. well-equipped permanent hospitals and
hospital ships. General Buller.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 20th Dec. 1899. — Saw Sir A.
Bigge on his return from London, where I had sent
him to go to the War Office, and also to see Lord
Wolseley. Both he and Lord Lansdowne, as well as
Lord Salisbury, say it is quite impossible to allow
Arthur to go to South Africa. I have urged it as much
as I could, feeling what a laudable wish it was on his
part, though naturally I should have felt it intensely,
I agreed that Sir A, Bigge should write this to both
Bertie and Arthur.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Nedes Palais, 21st December 1S99.

Most beloved Grandmama, — ^With my heart yet
full of gratitude for the lovely days spent at Windsor,
and still under the charm of all the kindly impressions,
I venture to disturb your precious time with these
lines. May God bless you and protect you in the
coming year as He has done up to now! May He
allay fears, care, and sorrow which will visit even your
August Person as best He knows, for it is He who sent
them ! May He alleviate the burden of anxiety
which is now resting on your shoulder, and may He
help to find a way for your wisdom to bring everything
to a good and peaceful issue ! “ Peace and goodwill

among men ” sang the angels once, and it seems
sometimes difficult for the latter to live up to these
grand and simple words 1 I am afraid that in many
a home in England Xmas will be a sad one, but I hope
that in the Xmas week there wiU be no urgence for
fighting, and that perhaps a ray of hope for the finding
of a means to finish may be found in the holidays of
the week. The loss of so many officers and men is
most distressing, and deeply do I feel for those they
left behind. But at all events the British aristocracy
have shown the world that they know how to die
doing their duty, like the other gentlemen 1

445

389D] THE QUEEN AND LORD ROBERTS

From Mother I got some letters showing how
delighted she is with the yacht Lorely and my English
cook and steward ! May our screen find favour with
you ; it is the work of a lady, and may I trust be of
some use to you. We have had a very severe winter
here, the thermometer showing 21° Reaumur below
zero and abundant snow. Children have made snow-
men, and of course caught colds. I too had to remain
in bed for a few days, and am indoors nearly since a
week. I remember my child’s Xmas at Windsor very
well ; may it be a happy one to you ! I remain, your
most devoted and respectful Grandson, Willy.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 22nd Dec. 1899. — Saw Lord
Salisbury before luncheon. I at once began about
Arthur’s anxiety to go to South Africa, and pressed it,
even against my own inclination. He is strongly
against it, but said he would consult his colleagues.
He lamented the loss of life, and the mistakes that had
been made, and was especially alarmed at Sir R. BuUer
having changed his mind so often. Lord Salisbury
thought Lord Lansdowne quite overdone and the work
beyond him. He (Lord S.) had insisted on Lord
Kitchener going out with Lord Roberts. He hoped
Parliament would not meet before the 15th of February.
He was greatly pleased at Nicky’s conciliatory tone,
as reported by Sir Charles Scott, and at a very friendly
message from the German Government.

Saw Lord Roberts after tea. He knelt down and
kissed my hand. I said how much I felt for him. He
could only answer, “ I cannot speak of that, but I can
of anything else.” He said it would take a long time
to do what had to be done, and thought very unfor-
tunate mistakes had been made by the Generals. He
hoped, when Sir R. BuUcr got his reinforcements, he
would be able to outflank the enemy, and thus relieve
Ladysmith, I asked what he meant to do himself.
He thought he would concentrate his troops, and then
move into the Transvaal. Spoke of the admirable

446 DUKE OF CONNAUGHT AND THE WAR [chap, xv

attitude of the whole Empire and of all the Colonial
troops being so anxious to take their part in the
fighting. He is delighted to have Lord Kitchener
with him, of whom he has the very highest opinion.
Spoke also of dear Christie, who was such a friend of
his poor son’s. He praised him very much, and said
he was an excellent soldier.

I referred to the difficulty about Arthur, and Lord
Hoherts said it would be impo.ssible in the face of the
Government’s opposition, but there was a place where
he would be hailed with great pleasure, viz, as Com-
mander of the Forces in Ireland. I said I hoped he
might be able to go there. Lord Roberts looks hale
and well, though very sad.

Queen Vicioria to the Duke of Connaught.
[Cypher Telegrams^

22nd Dec. [1899]. — ^Painful though it would be to
see you go, I share your feelings, and have repeated
your wish to go on Lord Roberts’s Staff to Lord
Salisbury, and think difficulty could be got over if you
agreed not to expect to assume supreme command
under any circumstances.

[Satne day ,] — Since my last telegram to you I have
seen Lord Roberts, who strongly advised against your
being attached to his Staff, as the responsibilities
thereby incurred both as regards yourself and him
would be too great. Under these circumstances I
feel that there is nothing further to be said or done,
but if you would like another public announcement of
your having again offered your services it shall be at
once made.

The Duke of Connaught to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegrams.]

,22nd Dec. 1899,— Have been with Lord Roberts,
who would gladly have me serve, but at meeting of
Defence Committee it was decided I could neither
waive rank nor would they hear of Duller being super-
seded. By this action I am prevented serving my

1899] DEPARTURE OP LORD ROBERTS 447

Queen and country at this critical moment. I feel
this most deeply.

2Srd Dec. — Thanks second telegram. Though
deeply grieved, this bears out my feeling of impossi-
bility of accepting condition, which you yourself must
see would be undignified, both socially and profession-
ally. Unless you particularly wish it, doubt advisa-
bility of repeating previous announcement. Aethuh.

Queen Victoria to the Duke of Connaught.
[Cypher Telegram.]

WiNDSOE Castle, 23rcZ Dec. 1899. — I have re-
ceived your telegram. Feel most deeply for you and
share your feelings. I pressed your wishes strongly
against my own, but the sense of responsibility, not
of want of confidence in the slightest degree, was too
strong on the part of the Government as well as on
Lord Roberts’s part to be overcome. When you con-
sider the facts and all sides of the question calmly, you
will see, I am sure, the wisdom of the decision, which
does in no way affect your future.

The Prince of Wales to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram^

2Srd Dec. 1899. — ^Arthur, Uncle George, and I have
just taken leave of Lord Roberts at railway station, a
dense and unmanageable crowd, with danger of being
squashed. I leave for Sandringham to-day. Beetie.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Fokeign Oeeice, 23rd Dec. 1899. — ^Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
submits that he is informed that there is a rule with
respect to the bestowal of the Victoria Cross after the
death of the recipient. It can be done if, before the
actual death, the Commanding Officer should have
expressed or formed the intention of recommending
the bestowal of it in that case ; but if no intention of
the kind had been expressed or formed, the Cross
cannot after death be conferred.

418 SOLDIERS’ XMAS TREE AT WINDSOR [chap, xv

Lord Salisbury was very glad to hear last night
that Lord Roberts had convinced your Majesty that
the appointment of the Duke of Connaught on his
staff was not a desirable arrangement. The military
tradition on the subject is so strong that the Duke’s
high military rank would be a fatal obstacle. Your
Majesty’s decision will obviate many serious difficulties
and dangers.

Lord Salisbury is enquiring with respect to the
Crown of India.

Memorandum by Sir Arthur Bigge.

25th Dec. 1899 . — Wrote to Lord Lansdowne that,
as the Duke of Connaught is under present circum-
stances precluded from serving in South Africa, IL.R.H.
is anxious for employment at home, and H.M. therefore
hopes that he will be nominated to succeed Lord
Roberts as C.-in-C. in Ireland.

Wrote to Lord Wolseley that Queen hoped he
would recommend H.R.H. for this appointment.

[Telegram.] Sir Redvers Buller to Sir Aithur Bigge.

Frere Camp, 25th Dec. 1899 . — ^Please present my
humble duty and thanks from all troops to the Queen.
We are all well. Wounded doing very well. Duller.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 26th Dec. 1899 . — ^At half-past
four w'cnt to St. George’s Hall with all my family,
including Lenchen, Victoria B., and her children, where
I gave the wives of the soldiers and their children a
tea and the Xmas tree. The Committee, who are
looking after those who are left here, as well as those
of the Reservists, were presented to me, Mary
Eliot and Freddy Crutchley being amongst them. The
Dean, the Mayor, the Vicar of Eton, etc., were there.
Then all the women and children trooped in, and
after looking at the tree they all sat down to tea at
two very long tables, below the tree. Everyone
helped to serve them, including my family, old and
young, and my ladies and gentlemen. I was rolled up

1899] HONOURS FOR NATIVE INDIANS 4,49

and down round the tables, after which I went away
for a short while to have my own tea, returning when
the tree was beginning to be stripped, handing myself
many of the things to the wives and dear little chil-
dren, many of whom were very pretty, and mostly
very young. They were so neatly dressed and very
well behaved. There were some babies of a few weeks
and months old. The women seemed very nice and
respectable. It was a very touching sight, when one
thinks of the poor husbands and fathers, who are all
away, and some of whom may not return. They
seemed all very much pleased.

Jane C[hurchill], Lord Denbigh, Mr. Conyngham
Greene, our former Diplomatic Agent at Pretoria,
Major Schreiber of the 1st Life Guards, and Major St.
Aubyn of the Grenadiers (both in command of their
regiments, as the Colonels were absent), Colonel Legge,
and Captain McNeill dined. Mr. Conyngham Greene
was very interesting to speak to. He had foreseen this
war sooner or later, and said the Boers had been quite
determined to bring it on. Perhaps it was better that
it had come now than later. He spoke also of having
been at Darmstadt in dear Louis’ time.

Lord Curzon to Q,ueen Victoria.

Government House, Calcutta, 21si Dec. 1899. —

. . . While at Agra the Viceroy had the pleasure of
making the acquaintance of the father of your
Majesty’s Munshi. He was a courtly old gentleman,
and had many interesting experiences to relate.
Unfortunately the Munshi was too unwell to accom-
pany his parent.

With regard to the question of titles and decora-
tions in India, the Viceroy entirely shares the strong
views which he knows to be entertained by your
Majesty as to giving a generous share to Native gentle-
men ; and he never fails to recommend any name that
is highly spoken of and duly qualified. But he would
not be doing his duty, did he not inform your Majesty
that the C.I.E. in particular has been so easily won by

450 LORD KITCHENER TO THE QUEEN [chap, xv

natives that its value is being depreciated among
Europeans. A native is often invested with it after a
few years of meritorious service. An Englishman only
gains it with difficulty after fifteen or twenty years.
The native, in addition, profits by a lavish distribution
of native honours which are not open to the European.

Similarly, among the higher orders, G.C.S.I, and
K.C.S.I., G.C.I.E. and K.C.I.E., the tendency has
been to present these to Native Chiefs or Princes
almost before they have proved their worth ; and
the Viceroy has met upon tour many Chiefs so
decorated, of whom it could not be said that they had
ever done anything. The Viceroy thinks it necessary
to mention these facts, since they show that on the
spot there is some practical difficulty in always giving
full effect to the generous sentiments which he feels
in a not less degree than your Majesty. . . .

Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

"Dunottar Castle,” off Madeira, 2Uh Dec,
1899. — Lord Kitchener presents his humble duty to
your Majesty, and begs to express his very grateful
thanks for the gracious letter he received from your
Majesty at Khartoum just before leaving, as well as
for one delivered to him by Lord Roberts.

Lord Kitchener feels greatly honoured by his
selection for the important post on the staff in South
Africa which your Majesty has been graciously pleased
to confide to him, and he begs to assure your Majesty
that no possible effort on his part shall be spared to
overcome the present difficulties, and to ensure a
successful issue to the campaign against the Boers.
It gives Lord Kitchener the greatest pleasure to serve
under Lord Roberts, for whom he has the highest
admiration.

Lord Kitchener left the Soudan in complete peace.
The force under Lieut.-Colonel Mahon had reoccupied
el Obeid, and the whole of Kordofan had willingly come
under the government. The rumours of strained
relations with the Emperor Menelek, started by the

451

1899] KIMBERLEY AND THE QUEEN

enemies of England, were entirely without foundation,
as Lord Kitchener’s relations with the Emperor were
most friendly when he left.

The college at Khartoum was progressing well, the
building being above the first-floor ivindows ; it was
hoped to complete the building by next August or
September. The teaching staff and students will be
then collected.

Colonel Kekewich to the Marquis of Lansdowne}
[Cypher Telegram.']

Kimbeeley, 2%th Dec. — [I] am desired by Mayor
and Council to forward the following message for
transmission through the proper channel : “ To her
Most Gracious Majesty, the Queen. The inhabitants
of Kimberley beg to send your Majesty New Year’s
Greetings. The trouble they have passed through,
and are still enduring, only tends to love and loyalty
towards your Majesty’s throne and person. R. H.
Henderson, Mayor, on behalf of the inhabitants.”

Queen Victoria to Colonel KeJcewick.

30th Dec. 1899. — Am deeply touched by your kind
and loyal New Year’s Greetings.

I watch with admiration your determined and
gallant defence, though I regret the unavoidable loss
of life incurred,

Ecctract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 31sf Dec. 1899. — ^This is the last day in
this very eventful, and in may ways sad, year. I have
lost many friends, amongst them one who can never
be replaced, darling Marie Leiningen ! Then there are
the sad losses amongst my brave troops, which is a
constant sorrow to me. In the midst of it all I have,
however, to thank God for many mercies and for the
splendid unity and loyalty of my Empire. I pray
God to bless and preserve all my children, grand-
children, and kind relations and friends, and may
there be brighter days in store for us !

* Sent through ofiicer commanding at Modder Biver.

Ill— SO

INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO CHARiiiR XVI

The last year of the nineteenth century was also the last
year of Queen Victoria’s life. During this winter and spring
of war her Majesty, now in her eighty-first year, was more
than ever the embodiment of the national spirit. She was
indefatigable in encouraging by telegrams and letters her
troops and generals in the field; in stimulating to fresh
exertions Ministers and departments at home, and in criticis-
ing shortcomings ; in bidding God-speed to regiments on
departure, visiting wounded in hospital, and tendering
widows the most womanly and sympathetic consolation ; in
providing comforts for her soldiers to eat and to wear, working
for them herself among her ladies. Public opinion, in unison
with the Queen, and cheered by the hearty support of the
Empire for the war, remained steady, disregarding alike the
ill-will of the European Press and the protests of the pro-Boer
party, small but clamorous. Criticism of the War Office was
vigorous, and of some of the strategy and tactics in the field
was not wanting ; but volunteering was exceedingly active ;
the Liberal amendment to the Address was defeated by 352
votes to 139, and the increases of the Navy and the Army
were obtained without difficulty, as well as the necessary
taxation — income tax of a shilling in the pound, and con-
siderable additions to the taxes on beer, spirits, and tobacco.

The Boers did not make any serious attempt to follow up
their December victories, except by fomenting rebellion in
the north and east of Cape Colony, and by a desperate but
unsuccessful attempt on 6th January upon Caesar’s Camp
at Ladysmith, Lord Roberts, who with Lord Kitchener
reached the Cape on the 10th, spent some weeks in organising
transport and raising Colonial forces ; but on 9th February
he was at Modder River at the head of a large column of
troops, and immediately despatched General French with the
cavalry to turn the left of General Cronje’s army and relieve
Kimberley — ^which was done on the 15th. When Cronje
endeavoured to slip away to the east he was attacked by
Lord Roberts’s force, and harassed and finally surrounded in
his entrenchments in the bed of the Modder River at Paarde-
berg after a severe battle on the 18th. On the 27th, the
anniversary of Majuba, he surrendered to Lord Roberts with
his army of 4,000 men. Meanwhile in Natal, Sir Redt'ers
Buller, having received considerable reinforcements, was
pressing forward towards Ladysmith with frequent fights,
and some setbacks, notably one at Spion Kop on 25th

462

1900] INTRODUCTORY NOTE 453

January. It was not until the enemy’s troops had been
weakened by the necessity of sending reinforcements to
Cronje that, after very severe fighting, Ladysmith was relieved
on 28th February, Sir George White and his troops having
undergone a siege of four months.

Cronje’s surrender and the relief of Kimberley and
Ladysmith altered the whole situation. The Boer Presidents
coolly telegraphed on 5th March to Lord Salisbury that they
were ready to make peace if the “ incontestable independence
of both republics ” was secured. At the same time they
appealed to the Powers, especially Germany and the United
States, to intervene ; but all enquirers were told in London
that her Majesty’s Government did “ not propose to accept the
intervention of any Power in the South African War.” The
Queen came up to Buckingham Palace for a couple of days,
8th and 9th March, to receive the acclamations of her people.
She was welcomed by members of both Houses of Parliament
unofficially in the quadrangle of the Palace ; and was enthu-
siastically cheered during two long drives in an open carriage
through the streets of London. She marked her appreciation
of the fine conduct of her Irish soldiers at the front by ordering
that all ranks in her Irish regiments should wear the shamrock
on St. Patrick’s Day, and by authorising the formation of a
regiment of Irish Guards. Instead of going for her spring
holiday, as she had intended, to Bordighera, her Majesty de-
termined to visit Ireland. She stayed at the Viceregal Lodge
from 4th to 26th April. She was welcomed on her arrival by
the Lord Mayor of Dublin, and was always cordially and often
enthusiastically received in her numerous drives through the
city and neighbourhood ; she held a review, saw several
leading Irishmen, lay and clerical, and visited many charitable
institutions.

Lord Roberts entered Bloemfontein on 18th March
without opposition, and paused to rest and refit his troops.
The attempts made by British detaclmients to pacify the
country districts and to collect arms were only moderately
successful ; and a series of local disasters, at Sannah’s Post,
Dewetsdorp,Reddersberg, and elsewhere, which were repeated
only too often during the remainder of the war, irritated our
troops and heartened the Boers. While many districts of
the Orange Free State were still overrun by the enemy.
Lord Roberts advanced northwards, and after fighting several
engagements entered Kroonstad on 12th May. Meanwhile,
he had made arrangements for the relief of Mafeking, which

454 INTRODUCTORY NOTE [chap, xvi

was effected by a mounted force under Colonel Mahon on
the 17th. The good news was received in England with the
wildest enthusiasm. Colonel (at once promoted Maj or- General)
Baden-Powell and his gallant force had held out for seven
months.

After Kroonstad Lord Roberts’s advance was not seriously
opposed. He crossed the Vaal on 28th May, entered Johan-
nesburg on the 31st, and finally Pretoria, where he released
4,000 British prisoners, on 5th June, General Botha evacua-
ting the capital without a fight. The capitals of the two states
and all the most important towns were now in British occupa-
tion, and Mr. Kruger and Mr. Ste5m, the two Presidents, had
taken refuge with such of their troops as were in the field.
But overtures to the Boer Generals proved fruitless, and a
guerilla warfare began which it was to take our forces two
more years to overcome. Immediately after Lord Roberts
had entered Pretoria, General De Wet surprised a British force
at Roodeval, and after a severe fight captured 700 men, and
destroyed large stores of ammunition and supplies ; continuing
to make raids on a smaller scale throughout the autumn and
winter. On the other hand, on 31st July, General Prinsloo
with 4,000 men was surrounded by Generals Hunter and
Rendle and surrendered. Sir Redvers Duller, too, had
much success m clearing the eastern Transvaal and the
Drakensberg.

By 1st September the situation seemed sufficiently defined
for the issue of the Proclamation annexing the Transvaal to
her Majesty’s Dommions, the Orange Free State having been
annexed on 28th May. Mr. Chamberlain had declared in the
House of Commons that it was intended to give the annexed
states at the earliest possible moment the constitution of
self-governing Colonies. On the 11th Mr. Kruger with-
drew to Lorenzo Marques on his way to Europe ; he was
received by the French President, but refused an audience
by the German Emperor. Mr. Steyn remained with the Boer
guerillas. Owing to the ambiguity of Liberal opinion on
the war, and to the unsparing abuse which had been heaped
on Mr. Chamberlain and his policy, an appeal was made to
the British electorate in a General Election in October. The
verdict was unmistakable : the Unionists were confirmed in
office by a majority of 184. Lord Salisbury made several
alterations in his Cabinet, the most important being that he
relinquished the Foreign OfiSce to Lord Lansdowne. Lord
Roberts was appointed Commander-in-Chief in succession to

1900] INTRODUCTORY NOTE 4,55

Lord Wolseley, and gave up the command in South Africa to
Lord Kitchener, who remained to deal with the guerilla
warfare.

The British Empire showed everywhere great enthusiasm
for the war, and the Colonies furnished many contingents of
fighting men, New Zealand, the farthest from South Africa,
being perhaps the most enthusiastic of all. The Australian
Commonwealth Act passed, after a compromise on the appeal
to the Judicial Committee. Lord Hopetoun, the first
Governor-General, reached Sydney on 16th December, and
Mr. Barton became the first Prime Minister.

In Germany the first step was taken in naval rivalry with
Great Britain by the new Navy Bill, which was eventually
passed in the Reichstag by a majority of two to one. The
scheme provided two complete fighting fleets, operating inde-
pendently. In France the holding of a Universal Exhibition
contributed to a gradual calming of public opinion. In Italy
King Humbert was assassinated by an anarchist, and was
succeeded by his son, the present sovereign, Victor Emmanuel.
An anarchist shot at the Prince of Wales at Brussels.

In China this year there was a serious “ Boxer ” anti-
foreign rising, fostered behind the scenes by the Empress
Dowager. It began by massacres of missionaries and native
Christians, and general outrage and looting ; and in June
brought about chaos in Pekin. Several foreign diplomatists
were murdered ; foreign-owned buildings — cathedrals, banks,
custom-house, mint, post office, and some of the legations —
were destroyed ; the principal shops were burnt ; and on the
20th there began a regular siege of the legations — ^the British
Legation being the centre of resistance, and the British
Minister, Sir Claude MacDonald, in command. With a
nucleus of only 400 legation guards they held out for eight
weeks, till they were relieved on 13th August by an inter-
national force which had fought its way from Tientsin,

In the summer the Queen’s health began to fail. She was
much affected by the death of the Duke of Coburg at the end
of July, and of Prince Christian Victor on active service in
October, and by the prolonged sufferings this autumn of the
Empress Frederick. She was seriously ill at Windsor early
in November, but recovered for awhile. After getting to
Osborne in the middle of December, she steadily lost ground,
but still kept at work. The death of her old friend Lady
Churchill on Christmas Day was another blow. Her Majesty
lived on into 1901 for only three weeks.

CHAPTER XVI
1900

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Sir Redvers Buller.

1st Jan. 1900. — ^Wisli you all a bright and happy
New Year. God bless you ! V. R. I.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 1st Jan. 1900. — I begin to-day a new
year and a new century, full of anxiety and fear of
what may be before us ! May all near and dear ones
be protected, above all, darling Vicky, who is far from
well ! I cannot help feeling thankful that, after all,
dear Arthur has not gone out to this terrible war. I
hope and pray dear Christie may be spared and many
a tried and devoted friend. I pray that God may
spare me yet a short while to my children, friends,
and dear country, leaving me all my faculties and to
a certain extent my eyesight 1 May He bless our
arms and give our men strength to fulfil their arduous
task !

Lord Tennyson'^ to Queen Victoria.

GovEBJorcNT House, Adeiaide, Isf Jamiary 1900.

Madam, — On behalf of South Australia and our-
selves, I venture this morning to send a telegram
expressing our heartfelt loyalty and best wishes for
your Majesty in the coming year.

Your Majesty is constantly in our thoughts, for
we know how, Madam, you must be grieving over this
terrible war; and yet your Majesty will rejoice, as

'■ The 2nd Lord Tennyson, then Governor of South Australia ;
Governor-Genera] of the Commonwealth of Australia 1001-1904.

466

1900] LOYALTY OP AUSTRALIA 457

we all do, in the splendid bravery of our British
troops, and of our Naval Brigade. The war has done
an infinity of good on this island- continent, and has
welded Australia to the Empire in such a way that
the bond of union will, I feel convinced, be hence-
forward indissoluble. Before the war there was a
party for the separation of Australia from Great
Britain, but such has been the earnest and impetuous
loyalty of the labouring classes all through the
country, that the demagogues have been compelled
to give up the utterance of their unpatriotic senti-
ments, and now are among the most patriotic speakers
at public meetings.

At a meeting in one of the most democratic centres
the other day a poor man in his working clothes
marched up the hall, and handed the Mayor his few
shillings, which was his day’s pay, and desired that
they should go to the fund for the wives and children
of the soldiers. The Mayor asked for his name. He
answered, “ Oh, it does not matter about the name :
I am an old militia man, and can feel for those who
are fighting for home and country.” The democrats
rose to a man and cheered loudly. Indeed, the out-
burst of enthusiastic loyalty and devotion to your
Majesty throughout Australia is magnificent) and I
am glad to have lived to see it. . . .

I am, Madam, with my humble duty, ever your
Majesty’s most loyal servant, Tennyson.

[Copy.] Sir Arthur Bigge to the Lord Mayor.

OsBOBKE, 2nd January IWQ.

My Lord Mayor, — I have the honour to inform
you that the Queen regrets that she is unable [to]
adopt the gratifying suggestion contained in your
letter of the 31st inst. that her Majesty should accept
the Honorary Colonelcy of the City of London Im-
perial Volunteers. The Queen being head of^ her
Army is head of every regiment in it, and her Majesty
has never been especially nominated Chief of any of
her regiments.

458 GERMAN SOLDIERS AND TRANSVAAL [chap, xvi

At the same time, I have to assure you how much
the Queeu values the Corps which the City of London
has so patriotically raised for service in S.A.

[Tsiegram.] Queeyi Victoria to Sir George White.

8th Jan. 1900. — ^Warmly congratulate you and all
under your command for your brilliant success^;
greatly admire conduct of the Devonshire regiment.
V. R. I.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

8th Jan. 1900. — Sir Alfred Milner telegram No, 1
January Srd.'* Sir F. Lascelles should be instructed
to remonstrate at the presence of so many German
officers and men with the Boers. It is monstrous.
V. R. L

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria,
[Cypher Telegram,]

8th Jan, — ^Humble duty. Your Majesty’s cypher
to-day. Am assured by German Charge d’Affaires that
every precaution had been taken to prevent German
officers from joining the Boers. Leave was invariably
refused if it was thought they were going to South
Africa, If German soldiers who were pensioned took
service with the Boers, their pension was stopped. Of
course German Government have not legal power to
go farther than this and, if they are telling the truth,
they have done all they can.

[Telegram.] Lady White to Queen Victoria,

Englefield Geeen, Jan. 1900. — Will your
Majesty allow me to express with humble duty my
heartfelt gratitude and deepest appreciation of your
Majesty’s gracious message ? Amy White.

' In the attack on Cfesai’s Camp.

* Sir Alfred Milner reported that some fifty German soldiers and
reservists, mostly officers or non-commissioned officers, and some ten
Frenelmien had landed at Delagoa Bay on various dates during
November and December and gone up to the Tranavaal.

1900] EMPRESS FREDERICK ON THE WAR

459

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

Qth Jan, 1900. — . . . General Sir G. White’s tele-
gram is cheery in tone, and describes in well-chosen
words the result of a well-earned success.

Lord Wolseley is glad that our losses are small in
rank and file, though severe in officers. But that is
as it should be, for it proves that the gentlemen to
whom the Queen gives Commissions in the Army
realise the privileges of their position as gentlemen,
and nobly accept the responsibilities inseparable from
that position. . . . Wolseley.

[Copy.] The Empress Frederick to Queen Victoria.

La JVlAaiGOLA, 10th January 1900.

My beloved Mama, — . . - I look upon this war,
dreadful as it is, as of immense use to England in
many a way 1 First, it has shown us where the weak
points in our armour are, and we can remedy that ;
then it has caused the others, who envy us and wish
us ill, to “ show their hand,” and then what stuff we
are made of — i.e. how determined and loyal and united
and how we intend to carry through what we have
begun ! Then, it will weld the Empire together ; in
short, it is a crisis in our development, which I am
sure was unavoidable, and in spite of losses and
reverses, the experience we shall have gained will be
a strength and a blessing to us hereafter, and those
who so loudly attack us in their Press will have to
change their tone some day, and they have not made
us change our purpose. . . . Your most dutiful and
devoted daughter, Victoria.

Ewtract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, Wih Jan. 1900, — ^After tea saw Lord
Rowton. Had much talk with him about the war
and our want of preparedness, which has existed for
a long time, and which is very culpable. Also asked
him to see Lord Salisbury, to try and impress upon
him the importance of having no official enquiry into

400 “ UNTOWARD INCIDENTS ” IN THE WAR [chap, svi

tile conduct of the war until it is over. It would
only be repeated back to the Boers and to foreign
countries, and would do us a great deal of harm.

Sir George White to Private Secretary,

\Telegram,'\

11th Jan. 1900. — The Garrison of Ladysmith are
deeply grateful for the Queen’s most gracious message,
and beg to express their loyal duty.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War Omen, 11th January 1900.

My deae Bigge, — I am not surprised at her
Majesty’s anxiety, and at the concern with which she
regards the succession of untoward incidents which
have occurred in South Africa.

I enclose copy of a telegram which was sent to
Lord Roberts yesterday ; it gives him a free hand to
dispose of his Generals as he thinks fit. This is, I
believe, the proper line to take, and Lord Salisbury,
whom I have consulted, is of the same opinion. In
a personal and private telegram I mentioned to Lord
Roberts the impression which had been produced here
by private letters from officers with Lord Methuen’s
force, some of these officers of very senior rank, and
begged that he would satisfy himself upon this
point. . . . Pray convey to her Majesty my grateful
thanks for her readiness to excuse me from attendance
upon her at Osborne. I am, my dear Bigge, yours
sincerely, Lansdowne.

The Marquis of Salishury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oeeice, 15th Jan. 1900, — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
submits that in compliance with your Majesty’s
commands he saw Lord Rowton yesterday.

He understands that your Majesty is disagreeably
impressed with the number of Members of Parliament
on the Government side who have gone to the war,
and who will therefore for some months be «ib'’#»Tit

1900] PARLIAMENTARY ENQUIRY? 4.61

from divisions. Great efforts were made to persuade
some of them of the serious inconvenience of this
course, but without success. Lord Salisbury under-
stands that at present there are only fifteen gone ; and
the enthusiasm which has carried them off is becoming
perhaps less intense. The strong feeling shown by all
classes, and in all parts of your Majesty’s Dominions,
must be very gratifying to your Majesty, though
some of the results are inconvenient for the time.

Lord Rowton spoke to Lord Salisbury upon the
question of a Parliamentary enquiry into the conduct
of the war and the preparations of the War Office.
Lord Salisbury quite admits that some such enquiry
will be insisted on, and is in fact necessary ; but he
does not see how it is to be conducted satisfactorily
while the war is stiU going on. Most of the witnesses
who can give any evidence of value will be either in
South Africa, or, if they are in this country and con-
nected with the War Office, will be so entirely occupied
with official duties of the utmost importance that
they will have no time for appearing before a Select
Committee. This will be a formidable difficulty,
because no doubt Parliament will press that the
enquiry should commence as soon as possible.

In the case of the Crimean War the double mistake
was made — the enquiry was resisted (and carried in
the teeth of the Government), and it was commenced
at once. Consequently, there was no evidence worth
having, and it ended in nothing.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

OsBOKNE, 17th Jan. 1900. — ^After tea read des-
patches, etc,, and there was a telegram from Sir
C. Scott, sajdng Nicky had forbidden anything being
done to embarrass us in our present difficulties.

Saw Mr. Goschen before dinner, with whose energy
and intelligent comprehension of affairs I was much
pleased. He had not left London, except once for
two nights, for a number of months, as there was so
much requiring constant attention, owing to the ships

462 EUROPEAN UNFRIENDLINESS [chap, xvi

that were being seized. Talked over the war, and the
many losses due to want of preparation, which how-
ever had been almost unavoidable. Spoke of the
unfriendliness of Germany, which he thought unac-
countable. Neither of us believed in any intention of
France to attack us, but we must be well prepared,
and he agreed with me that all the militia ought to be
called out. lie thought it would be dangerous to
mobilise the Reserve Fleet, as the French believed we
meant to attack them, and such a step might encourage
such a belief. It was a great thing that the Govern-
ments of Germany, Russia, and France were well
disposed. He quite agreed with me as to the desir-
ability of there being no discussions about the war in
Parliament, but that there should be an ultimate
enquiry into the state of affairs.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oefice, ISih Jan. 1900. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
returns with many thanks the most interesting extract
from the letter of H.I.M. the Empress Frederick which
your Majesty has kindly allowed him to see. He
hopes that the difficulty with Germany has been ar-
ranged. The sailors have been easily persuaded, on
very inadequate evidence, to stop the German mail
ships. But the matter has been settled, though it will
probably prove to be a costly mistake.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Calcutta, 18th Jan. 1900. —
The Viceroy with his humble duty to your Majesty
the Queen Empress has been writing with his own
hand, and sending to the various Princes and Chiefs
letters, or Kharitas as they are here called, expressing
to them the recognition of your Majesty and of your
Government of the loyalty that they have displayed,
and of their generous offers of assistance, sometimes
personal, sometimes in horses, equipment, and men, for
the war in South Africa.

1900] INDIA AND THE WAR 468

The young Maharajah Scindia, about whom the
Viceroy has more than once written, has been burning
with anxiety to go out to the theatre of war, and to
distinguish himself in any capacity, however subor-
dinate, in the field.

It is disappointing to have to refuse these offers, in
some cases so manifestly genuine. But apart from
the racial question in South Africa, it is clear that -
difficulties would arise both in the employment of
Indian Chiefs and, if they were killed, out of their
death. And the Viceroy always impresses upon them
himself that their first duty lies among their own
people, particularly at a time when there are so much
distress and suffering in India.

Unfortunately, the famine deepens and gets worse ;
and although no one pays much attention to us from
outside, the Viceroy fears that he is confronted with the
worst famine, in respect of the districts that are hardest
hit, within and even beyond living memory in India.
The strain upon Government, both administrative
and financial, is tremendous; and we have five
months more of anxiety and suffering in view. Few,
if any, fives have so far been lost. But as often as not
it is our own officers who break down. The other day
there came into hospital here an excellent engineer
officer from the Central Provinces, paralysed, and
almost shattered, by the strain of the past three
months. . . .

We seem at a turning-point in South Africa, and
the whole Empire is waiting eagerly for better news.

The Viceroy hopes that when your Majesty goes
to Bordighera, you may enjoy more freedom from
interruption, and may derive even greater gain than
might have been the case at Nice.

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

OsBOENE, 19th Jan. 1900. — Sir J. Fullerton told me
about the new yacht, in which he came round to
Portsmouth. She had proved herself a good sea boat,
but met wdth an accident while she was being floated, in

464 QUEEN’S CllOCOJuA^PJi J^'OK 'IKOOl-'S [chap, xvi

consequence of most blameable miscalculation ; and
many improvements, especially those for the accom-
modation of the crew, will in consequence have to be
abandoned. The poor constructor, Sir William
White, ^ is quite brokenhearted about it, for she will
now not be the success she was to have been, though
quite safe. It is very annoying.

21st Jan. — ^Heard shortly before dinner from May
that her poor father had had a seizure, and was in a
most critical condition. Directly afterwards heard
poor Eranz Teck had passed peacefully away.

Lord Roberts to HM's Private Secretary.
[Telegram.]

Cape Town, 21st Jan. 1900. — The issue of the
Queen’s Christmas gift of chocolate to the troops in
South Africa has commenced. Please inform her
Majesty her soldiers are deeply grateful for her
gracious and kind thought of them, and we are
inundated with requests to supply the boxes to
regiments at a distance which have not yet received
them. Robeets.

Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Cape Town, 21st January 1900.

Madam, — . . . The state of affairs here is, I regret
to say, far from satisfactory ; and I fear no change for
the better can take place until peace is restored, and
the several factions, into which South Africa is divided,
realise that it is our unalterable determination to
maintain British supremacy from Cape Town to the
Zambesi. Party feeling runs very high, and, as
intermarriage between the Dutch and other settlers
in the several colonies has been the custom for many
years past, relations are divided against relations, and
friends of long standing have become bitter enemies.

Some few of the Dutch are staunch loyalists, but
the sympathy of the great majority is with the Boers,
and owing to the idea (which was widely spread about

^ 1845-1913 ; Director of Naval Construction, 1885-1902,

1000] LORD ROBERTS AT THE CAPE 465

by the Transvaal Government) that we would not
continue the struggle, and to the successes which the
Boers met with at the commencement of the war, many
waverers joined against us. Others are watching
events, and the general opinion seems to be that, if
we get well through the next month or six weeks, the
Boers will not be able to obtain many more recruits
from districts south of the Orange River.

The importance of encouraging the loyal subjects
of the Crown is fully appreciated by the civil as well
as the military in South Africa. During the short time
Sir Redvers Buller was here he ordered some local
corps to be raised, and, with Sir Alfred Milner’s assist-
ance, I am now arranging that these should be
considerably strengthened. Colonel Brabant, a gentle-
man possessing considerable influence in the Colony,
is increasing the number of men in his regiment to
over 3,000, and his promotion to the rank of Brigadier-
General has, I understand, given the greatest satisfac-
tion to all your Majesty’s loyal subjects in South
Africa.

It will, I am sure, interest your Majesty to learn
that the hospitals I have been able to visit are well
managed and in excellent order. So high an authority
as the eminent surgeon Sir William MacCormac ^ has
expressed himself well satisfied with them, and with
the medical arrangements generally. The nursing
sisters are indefatigable in their care of, and attention
to, the sick and wounded officers and men, and their
labours are well seconded by the many ladies who
have come forward to help in the hospitals, and whose
presence in the wards, coupled with their gifts of flowers,
books, and newspapers, goes far towards brightening
the somewhat sad scenes amidst which they work.

I had a curious experience a day or two ago. I
entered a ward some paces ahead of the hospital staff,
and enquired from the first patient I came across to
what regiment he belonged. As I asked the question,

* Consulting surgeon to the forces in South Africa ; five times
President of the Royal College of Surgeons.

466 MR. CHAMBERLAIN AT OSBORNE [chap, xvi

1 thought it odd that so old and so well bearded a man
could be serving in the I’anks. The explanation was
afforded when I heard that the ward was full of
wounded Boers. They were most respectful in their
manners, and bore themselves with great dignity. All
were unanimous in their thanks for the kind and
skilful treatment they had received.

2ith January . — I have kept this open until to-day
in the hope that I might be able to give your Majesty
good news about Sir Redvers Buller’s force, but a
telegram received last evening shows that the advance
portion of it, under General Warren, has still some
distance to go before it can reach Ladysmith. It is a
very anxious time ....

I am distressed at not being able to afford some
assistance by threatening Bloemfontein, but the want
of a properly organized transport precludes my taking
the field at present. This, however, is gradually being
remedied, and I sincerely trust that, by the time this
letter reaches England, some of your Majesty’s troops
will have entered tlie Orange Free State.

With my most respectful duty, I have the honour
to he, Madam, your Majesty’s most obedient humble
servant, Robekts.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 22nd Jan. 1900. — Saw Mr. Chamberlain.
Of course we talked of the war and the Colonies in
general. He thinks and hopes that the back of the
war will be broken if avc can reheve Ladysmith. He
will not believe that the numbers of the Boers are as
great as is said, and thinks they must be exaggerated,
in which I differ with him. He repeated that he had
done everything in the world to prevent the war, hut
that as it had come, for come it must have in the
future, it was better that it should have been now,
before the numbers of the enemy were still greater.

Mr. Chamberlain spoke of the Federation of the
Australian Colonies, which had been effected in
Australia, but would have to be legalised by an act of

407

1900] PRAYERS FOR USE IN WAR

Parliament. There -would then he only one Governor-
General and lesser Provincial Governors, more or less
as in Canada. The Colonies particularly wished for
some one closely connected with the throne, and he
mentioned Louise and Lome, which much to my regret
I had to say was quite impossible on account of her
health, so he said he would not move in the matter.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

22nd Jan. 1900. — Humbly submitted. The Lord
Mayor reports that £52,240 has, so far, been collected^
in churches and in compliance with “ The Queen’s
Letter.”

Sir A. Bigge has expressed your Majesty’s gratifi-
cation at this satisfactory result of the appeal.

Archbishop Temple to Queen Victoria.

Lambeth Palace, 2Uh Jan. 1900.— -The Arch-
bishop of Canterbury presents his humble duty to
the Queen, and encloses a copy of the Form of
Intercession which it is proposed to issue under Royal
Authority for use in church during the continuance of
the present war.**

It is drawn up in such a manner as to give various
alternatives so as to suit frequent use, and also so as
to permit of its being either a part of the regular order
for morning or evening service, or being made a very
brief separate service.

The Archbishop desires to assure the Queen of his
entire devotion to her Majesty’s Office and Person.
F. Cantuar.

The Archbishop is sending copies to the Prime
Minister and the Home Secretary,

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, 24!th Jan. 1900. — See by despatch that
Sir R. Buller recommended poor young Roberts

1 For the Indian famine. The sum eventually reached about
£400,000.

^ See below, pp. 472 and 476.

4,68 SPION KOP [chap, xti

while he was still alive for the Victoria Cross. Would
wish to have it, so that I may hand it to Lady Roberts
myself.

I think you should never publish what the Generals
announce they mean to do, or any great hopes, when
London is full of spies, and it will instantly be
telegraphed back. . . .

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

2Mh Jan. (1900), — ^Your Majesty’s telegram of to-
day. Victoria Cross for Lieutenant Roberts will be
sent to your Majesty.

Our practice as to publishing telegrams has been
in accordance with your Majesty’s view. In case of
telegrams published to-day announcement had referred
to an event which would take place before publica-
tion. Whenever possible I consult Commander-in-
Chief as to publication.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal,

Osborne, 2Qth Jan. 1900. — ^My cough was so
troublesome during the night, that I could only get
up late. Heard to my great distress from Sir R.
Buller : “ Warren’s garrison, am sorry to say, I find
this morning had in the night abandoned Spion Kop.
Up there yesterday they lost General Woodgate
dangerously wounded, 200 killed, and about 300
wounded, mostly badly. Have gone over and assumed
command, and am bringing force back to Potgieter’s
Drift on morning of 27th.” This caused us the most
bitter disappointment, after having been so delighted
at the previous good news.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury,
[Cypher Telegram.]

2'7thJan. 1900. — Am much surprised to see by your
telegram and letter that the very serious state of the
war was not considered by the Cabinet yesterday.
The feeling abroad, except in America and Italy, is

1900] LORD ROBERTS’S PLAN 4G9

SO inimical that we ought to take fm'ther steps to
protect this country, and to raise more troops if we
can. There is not a doubt that the attempted relief
of Ladysmith would have succeeded had we had more
troops. All Militia must be called out. Red-tapings
and useless difficulties must not be regarded at such
a very serious moment. The loss of so many valuable
lives for nothing is terrible. What do Lord Roberts
and Lord Kitchener say ? I have such faith in the
latter, but we hear nothing from either.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
{Cypher Telegram.}

27ih Jan. 1900. — ^Humble duty. Secret. Yester-
day Lord Lansdowne telegraphed to Lord Roberts,
and we have answer this morning. He is in com-
munication with General Buller, and is arranging for a
movement through the Orange Free State so as to
support General Buller’s movement in Natal. This
should not be mentioned. It is far the most hopeful
plan of operations, and in fact is the original plan which
Buller unwisely abandoned. Lord Kitchener is work-
ing with Lord Roberts.

We do not yet know history of abandonment of
Spion Kop. It does not seem to have been caused by
want of troops.

Your Majesty’s wishes as to defence of this country
have been conveyed to Lord Lansdowne. Every
effort is being made to raise troops here.

Queen Victoria to Sir Arthur Bigge,

27th Jan. 1900. — The Queen is determined to press
any available measure to put us in a safe position, and
to put an end to these terrible failures. . . .

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Sir Bedvers Buller.

OsBOKNE, 2Qth Jan. (1900). — must express my
admiration of the conduct of the troops during the
past trying week, especially of those regiments you
specify, and of the accomplishment of your arduous
march, V. R I.

470

FURTHER MILITARY MEASURES [chap, xvi

[Telegram.] Sir Redvers Buller to Queen Victoria.

Spearman’s Camp, SQthJan. 1900. — ^Your Majesty’s
gracious message has been communicated to the troops
and received with enthusiasm. General Buller.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria,

War Office, 2Qlh Jan. 1900. — Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he has
the honour to enclose a note of various military
measures which the Defence Committee has lately
decided to adopt on the recommendation of the War
Office. The Note does not of course profess to give
more than an outhne of the proposals, which will
require to be carefully worked out.

The second proposal, that for the creation of
battalions of “ Veterans,” originated with the Com-
mander-in-Chief, and is very strongly supported by
him- He is confident that many of these men will
be glad to serve again on a short engagement, such as
that suggested. It is hoped that your Majesty will be
pleased to issue a Proclamation inviting such men, and
also retired officers, to serve again.

The importance of increasing the mounted Artil-
lery will, Lord Lansdowne is sure, be recognised by
your Majesty, and also the desirability of placing
better guns of position in the hands of the Volunteers.

Lord Lansdowne deeply regrets that the news from
South Africa should be so little encouraging. He looks
forward confidently to an improvement in the situa-
tion from the moment when Lord Roberts begins his
advance into the Orange Free State. But the situa-
tion in Natal seems to him to present scarcely any
hopeful features.

Memorandum of Military Measures.

1, In view of the increased demands upon the Amy to raise
twelve new regular battalions of the Line.

2. To create a number of emergency battalions composed of
" veterans ” who have completed their period of service in the
Reserve. Such men to be engaged for one year only and to receive,
m addition to the full pay and allowances of a soldier, a bonus of

471

1900] THE QUEEN’S URGENCY

£20 payable in instalments. These men to be engaged primarily
for home service, but to be allowed to volunteer for service abroad
should they desire to do so. The number of battalions to be
thus raised was not fixed, it being thought better to first ascertain
whether men of this elass responded readily to the call.

3. To raise, in addition to the artillery now left at home, sufh-
cient artillery for two more Army Corps and two more Cavalry
Brigades.

4. To order guns for the whole of the batteries required to give
effect to the above decision, with sufficient reserve of guns. T'orty-
seven batteries of guns of the newest type liave been ordered.

5. All Cavalry regiments in the United Kingdom to be raised
to war strength.

6. To raise new Companies (number not yet fixed) of Royal
Engineers and Army Service Corps.

7. To continue the policy of embodying more Militia battalions.

Note. — A large embodiment could take place most con-
veniently later in the year, when the battalions embodied could
be put under canvas.

8. To double the number of three years’ men in each line
battalion, the establishment of the battalions being raised to a
corresponding extent to admit of this.

Note. — ^The effect of this will he to add rapidly to the number
of Army Reserve.

9. To supply a certain number of Volunteer Artillery regiments
with new guns of position of the best modern tjqie — the men to
be specially trained in their use.

10. During the coming summer to form Volunteer Camps for
the purpose of training that part of the Forces.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cypher Telegram.]

3Qth Jan. 1900. — ^Thanks for your letter of yester-
day. Am glad to hear of the measures determined on.
Hope all Cavalry at home will be for ever kept at war
footing. Trust that 8th Division will be sent as de-
sired by Lord Roberts and as soon as possible. Still
think the whole Militia should be embodied. Could
not cozTUgated-iron huts be used instead of tents ?

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Lady Boberts.

Osborne, 80iA January 1900.

Dear Lady Roberts,—! send you with these lines
what I know you and Lord Roberts will value, but
which I forward with a very sad heart. It is the
Victoria Cross, which I should have been so proud and

472 LIEUT. ROBERTS’S VICTORIA CROSS [chap, xvi

pleased to decorate your darling son with myself.
I would not let anyone send it you but myself ; it is a
melancholy pleasure to me to do so.’-

I have been most deeply touched by your letter
and by the one to Lady Lytton, in which you give all
the harrowing details of your beloved son’s last hours
and of his splendid conduct. It must be most trying
for you to be separated from your husband now in your
great grief. He has an arduous task before him ; and
will, as we all are, be much grieved at the grievous
losses we have again sustained.

That God may bless and protect him and protect
our brave soldiers who fight so admirably, and that
He may support you in your great trial and deep
affliction is the warmest prayer of, yours affectionately
and sympathisingly, V. R. I.

I shall be most anxious to see you on my return to
Windsor.

{Copy,] Queen Victoria to Archbishop Temple.

Osborne, Jan. 1900. — ^The Queen thanks the
Archbishop of Canterbury for his letter accompanying
the Form of Prayer to be used in the various Churches
in the dioceses of the country on the Sunday to be
shortly named for the occasion of the war in South
Africa, and the Queen thinks it will do very well with a
few alterations which Lord Salisbury wiU communi-
cate to him.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, 30th Jan. 1900. — am horrified at the
terrible list of casualties, twenty-two officers killed and
twenty-one wounded. It is quite imperative that
Lord Roberts should not move till he has plenty of
troops, a really large force. Pray impress this on him.
And we must hurry out more troops. You must call
out the Militia at once. Would it be possible to warn
the young officers not to expose themselves more than
is absolutely necessary ?

’ See telow, pp. 477-9.

1900] HEAYY CASUALTIES AMONG OFFICERS 473

Please show this to Lord Wolseley.

Ladysmith is a sad business, but how splendidly
[? defended !] We have never had enough troops . . .
and we have always underrated the number of the
enemy.

Please show this also to Lord Salisbury.

The Marquis of Lansdowne io Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

30th Jan. 1900 , — I join your Majesty in deploring
heavy casualties among officers. I will make Lord
Roberts aware of your wish that they should not
needlessly expose themselves ; but Lord Wolseley
thinks any general announcement of this sort would
be inadvisable.

Lord Wolseley is satisfied that Lord Roberts will "
not move before he has sufficient troops. We are
calling out more Militia, and will continue to do so. At
this moment our barracks are full. We are sending
out to South Africa Cavalry Brigade and more Militia,
and keeping the regiments now in South Africa up to
their establishment by sending out full drafts.

I will show your letter [? telegram] to Lord Salisbury.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

30th Jan. 1900 , — I thought the Speech^ wonder-
fully well worded. I am sure you will hold firm
language and not in a depressed tone, and not allow
discussions, before the war is over, about the Generals.
This applies equally to ^Ir. Balfour, Lord Lansdowne,
and Mr, Wyndham.*

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Behun, 30tt January 1900.

Most Beloved Grandmama, — Colonel Grierson
has been called back for service in Africa, and returns
to England to-night, and so I avail myself of this
opportunity to hasten to thank you for the kind letter

' The Queen’s Speech on the opening of Parliament,

» Under-Secretary for War.

4Y4 GERMAN OFFICERS WITH BOERS [chap, xvi

which contained so many good and kindly wishes and
for the fine vase which stood on my table, dwarfing all
my other presents ! The birthday was indeed a very
quiet one, as a deep shadow had been thrown on it by
the untimely death of my poor Mama-in-law. The
collapse was very sudden, and its suddenness struck
the poor children all the more. . . .

Since I last wrote you have again to deplore the
death of a General and many brave officers and men
on the bloody banks of Tugela. I deeply sympathise
with the grief of their relatives ; the rows of mourners
are, I am afraid, swelling more and more.

I immediately communicated the contents of your
letter about the five officers, said to be serving with the
.Boers, to the Chief of the Military Cabinet, General
von Hahnke. After due correspondence with the
Army Corps and regiments they belong to, I am glad
to be able to inform you that the news is quite incor-
rect. There are three Prussian officers belonging to
the active service in South Africa. One, a Major, was
sent to the South African Colonies (British) by the
doctors because he is suffering from a severe inflamma-
tion of the lungs. The second, a Lieutenant, has gone
out as a war correspondent for a Berlin paper, and has
been ordered to return. The third went to Cape Town
as a traveller to look on at the war, and has also been
motioned to return. In October a Major of a Lancer
Regiment went out as Zuschauer and went through
Pretoria ; he too has been recalled through my Consul-
General, and has set out on his return journey. These
are the only officers on active service in the Prussian
Army which have gone to South Africa. All the other
names quoted belong to officers who have long since left
the Army, and have [had] nothing to do with it for years .
Besides, they are mostly Bavarians, Wurttembergers,
etc. Over these I have no jurisdiction whatever, as
they do not belong to the Army, and they can do as
they like.

I think, therefore, that I can answer for my officers
and their obedience to my commands, and assure you

1900] NO MOBILISATION OF FLEET 475

that no actively serving officers are fighting or leading
Boers, which by the by they would be utterly in-
capable to, even should they have wished, considering
the enormous difficulty of that terrible country which no
European can understand, ivithout having lived there
for years. With my sincerest repeated thanks for all
your wishes, I kiss your hands, and respectfully remain,
ever your most obedient Grandson, William I. R.

P.S. — I had much better news, thank God, from
Mama ; she has gone on board the yacht again.

Mr. Goschen to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Private. Abmiualty, 30//i January 1000.

Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, — ^Lord Lansdowne
showed me a message of the Queen’s to him, in which
were the words : “I think the fleet ought to be ready
to mobilise.”

I can assure her Majesty that the possible necessity
of mobilising the fleet is constantly before my eyes,
and that all the dispositions we make keep this
eventuality in view, and immediate mobilisation could
take place at any moment.

I have consulted with Lord Salisbury and other
colleagues as to the question of actual mobilisation, but
we came to the conclusion that it would be inexpedient
to mobilise now. Such a step would inevitably lead
to counter-steps on the part of other Powers, whose
Governments at present are not menacing us navally
in any way. As regards France especially, if we
showed our full strength in the Channel, Ave should
have possibly a demonstration which would at once
cause anxiety as to our transports.

Our policy should be, in our judgment, while
watching with the keenest attention every disquieting
symptom, to do nothing provocative, or which W'ould
be called provocative ; but of course with the country
so denuded of troops, we ought to be ready at a
moment’s notice to have our whole strength mobile.

The necessity might arise at any moment. Yours
sincerely, George J. Goschen.

m ARCHBISHOP TEMPLE AND THE WAR [chap, xvi

[Telegram.] Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Cape Town, 1st Feb. 1900. — ^Words cannot ex-
press my gratitude to your Majesty for the gracious
kindness to and tender thoughtfulness for Lady
Roberts and myself. I am very well, and I trust
that everything is going on satisfactorily with your
Majesty’s Army in South Africa. Roberts.

Archbishop Temple to Queen Victoria.

Lambeth Palace, 1st Feb. 1900. — The Arch-
bishop of Canterbury presents his duty to the Queen,
and begs leave to express his gratitude for the warm
interest and kindly trouble which her Majesty now, as
always, has taken in what concerns the action of the
Church. Her Majesty’s suggestions for the improve-
ment of the Form of Intercession have been strictly
followed, and the Privy Council has made the necessary
order.

The Archbishop’s keen interest in the matter has
been much increased by the fact that his own eldest
son, just over twenty years of age, has obtained leave
of his College at Oxford to go to South Africa in
connection with the Oxfordshire Yeomanry, and sails
on Saturday. This is but another instance of the
strong feelings which animate the young men of Eng-
land in their devotion to her Majesty’s rights in all
the Empire.

The Archbishop desires to assure the Queen of
his entire devotion to her Crown and Person.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Calcutta, 1st Feb. 1900. —
The Viceroy with his humble duty to your Majesty,
the Queen Empress, is very grateful indeed for the
immediate and munificent response which your
Majesty was good enough to make to his appeal on
behalf of an Indian Famine Rehef Fund. It is now
settled that the fund wiU be opened simultaneously

477

1900] MAFEKING AND THE QUEEN

in India and England ; and although the same degree
of assistance cannot be expected from home as was
given three years ago, the Viceroy is yet hopeful that a
very substantial contribution may come from London,
where it seems that the wonderful loyalty shown by
all classes in India in connection with the war has
excited warm feelings of admiration and gratitude.

The Viceroy desires to acknowledge your Majesty’s
letter of 5th January which arrived a little while ago.
He has lost no opportunity of giving expression to
your Majesty’s sentiments to the Princes and peoples
of India ; and they are fully aware that their loyal
attitude has won the thanks of their Sovereign as well
as the recognition of the nation. . . .

The Mayor of Maf eking to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Mafeking, 2nd Feb. 1900. — ^Mafeking upon hun-
dredth day of siege sends loyal devotion to your
Majesty, and assurance continued resolve to maintain
your Majesty’s supremacy in this to^vn. Whiteley,
Mayor, Mafeking.^

Lady Roberts to Queen Victoria.

The Royal Hospital, Dublin, 2n(i February 1900,

Madam, — My most gracious and beloved Queen,
I have no words to express my deep gratitude for the
great honour your Majesty has done me, in sending
me with your Majesty’s own hand my darling boy’s
Victoria Cross, which I am so proud to receive, and
in writing me that beautiful and most precious letter,®
which, with the Cross itself, will ever be treasured by
my husband, my children, and myself as our most
highly valued possession.

It is utterly impossible to express what I feel ;
but I beg your Majesty will believe in my heartfelt
gratitude, love and devotion, and that of my two dear
girls, who feel most deeply the honour done to the
memory of their dearly loved brother, who was the

1 See below, p. 482, * See above, p. 471.

478

QUEEN AND THE MILITIA [chap, xvi

joy of (heir lives as well as of his parents. I am
sending my husband a copy of your Majesty’s precious
letter, as I know it will touch, console, and gladden
his heart more than anything else possibly could. I
feel deeply your Majesty’s graciously expressed wish
to see me at Windsor.

That God may bless and comfort your Majesty
for the loss of so many brave soldiers, and that He
may speedily restore peace and happiness to your
Majesty’s heart and kingdom is the earnest prayer.
Madam, of your Majesty’s humble and devoted ser-
vant, Nora Roberts.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

Osborne, 3rd Feb. 1900. — ^The Queen thanks Lord
Lansdowne for his letter of January 29th enclosing
the new proposals for increasing the Army. She will
be very glad to issue a Proclamation calling upon
those who have been in the Army to serve again.
The Queen only trusts that the men will be obtain-
able to furnish twelve battalions and forty-seven
batteries : if not, higher pay must be offered. The
Cavalry regiments are so few that all should always
be on a war footing.

The Queen repeats that all the Militia should be
embodied, and she feels tolerably certain that the
ballot must be enforced, as otherwise the Line and
Militia compete against each other. The Militia must
be brought up to its proper strength. The Com-
raander-in-Chief would rather have the Militia in
billets than not embodied. Now is the moment to
take advantage of the military spirit so strongly
evinced throughout the Empire, and the Government
ought to profit in every way by an opportunity which
may never occur again.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.

War Oeetce, Mh Feb. 1900. — ^Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he learns
with much pleasure that your Majesty approves of

1900] CRITICIS3VIS OF GENERALS 479

the idea of forming “ veteran ” battalions. The
Prime Minister, whom he has consulted as to the pro-
cedure to be followed, considers that the occasion is
not one upon whieh your Majesty should be asked to
issue a Proclamation to the country. Such a course
would be too suggestive of the idea that we were in
a position of extremity and therefore obliged to make
what should be regarded as a supreme effort, using
for the purpose your Majesty’s name.

In these circumstances Lord Lansdowne, con-
curring as he does with the Prime Minister, would
prefer to issue an army order inviting ex-soldiers to
re-enter the service on a short engagement.

Lord Lansdowne thinks with your Majesty that,
unless the situation alters greatly, the remainder of the
Militia should be embodied ; seventy-three battalions
have been embodied already. But the objections
to billeting are very serious, and Lord Lansdowne
would prefer to make arrangements for embodying
all battalions that may not be embodied within
the next few weeks, say, in the month of April, and
placing them under canvaS. Our barracks are all full,
and this may, Lord Lansdowne thinks, be regarded
as evidence that the country is not so denuded of
troops as some people suppose.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Mr. Baljour.

Osborne, Uh Feb. 1900. — ^The Queen must urge
again on Mr. Balfour very strongly the necessity of
resisting these unpatriotic and unjust criticisms of
our Generals and of the conduct of the war. If the
Government are firm and courageous the country
will support them. If not, the number of Boer spies
will telegraph back to South Africa, and great harm will
be done. You must all show a firm front, and not let
it he for a moment supposed that we vacillate in the
least. An enquiry after the war itself is over can be
held out, but not now. No doubt the War Office is
greatly at fault, but it is the whole system whieh must
be changed, and that cannot be just now.

480

THE OPPOSITION AND THii WAR [chap, xyi

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 5ih Feb. 1900 . — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that, in answer to your
Majesty’s letter, he is of opinion that the House of
Commons will support the Government in refusing
any investigation into circumstances connected with
war until the war itself be practically concluded. He
further believes that both the House and the country
are quite determined to bring the war to a successful
issue, whatever sacrifice such a policy may involve.
Nothing that occurred in to-night’s debate ^ seems to
militate against this view. Sir W. Harcourt began
with an elaborate speech. To Mr, Balfour it did not
seem at all inferior to the many speeches which Sir
William has delivered in the last few years. But it
was received with a strange and imexpected coldness
by the House, and seemed to please none of the many
sections into which the Opposition is divided. Mr.
Chamberlain followed. He dealt very briefly with
Sir William’s long historical disquisition, going back
as it did to 1881 ; but though he dealt with it briefly,
he dealt with it effectively. His speech was on the
broadest lines ; and no part of it was more impressive
and eloquent than those passages in which he dwelt
upon the imperial patriotism elicited from our Colonies
by the present crisis, and the resolve of the country
to see the contest pressed on to a successful termina-
tion. . . .

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cypher Telegram.]

5th Feb. 1900 , — ^Pray insist on the utmost secrecy
as to the intended movements of Sir R. Buller and
Lord Roberts, Sure they are incautious in the ofihce,
as things have [been] known which ought not, and
the country is full of spies.

1 On an amendment to the Address, moved by the Opposition leader.

1900] QUEEN AND VETERAN BATTALIONS

481

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Wab, Office, 5th Feb. 1900, — I admit the necessity
of the precautions which your Majesty suggests, and
shall take them. Lansdowne.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

5th Feb. 1900. — ^Lord Lansdowne says you do not
approve of Proclamation for raising Veteran batta-
lions. Most earnestly beg you will reconsider this, as
Commander-in-Chief bases success of scheme, which
is his own, on this condition, and I am most anxious
it should not fail, which is possible unless I am person-
ally identified with the appeal.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram^

5th Feb. 1900. — Humble duty. The matter is, of
course, one entirely for your Majesty to decide. The
use of your name in an appeal of this kind is a very
powerful instrument ; but it may be required in an
emergency later on, and it would be a pity to diminish
its force by using it where it does not seem to be
urgently necessary. I was informed this evening that
Lord Wolseley was of opinion that the use of your
name was not necessary. But I will not offer any
objection to any course your Majesty may decide on
in the matter.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

6th Feb. 1900. — ^As you do not think there is
urgent necessity to use my name in the appeal, and
if Secretary of State for War is confident that the
necessary numbers will be forthcoming without using
it, and if Lord Wolseley does not consider it necessary,
I will no longer urge proposal. My only wish is to
■■void foibire.

482

LARGE MAJORITY FOR THE WAR [chap, xvi

[Telegram^] Queen Victoria to the Mayor of Maf eking}

6th Feb. 1900. — Thank you for telegram. With me
the whole nation watches with admiration and con-
fidence your cheerful determined defence. Trust sick
and wounded are progressing.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

10 Downing Street, 7th Feb. 1900. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humhlc duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that the debate on the vote
of censure ended last night with a triumphant victory
for the Government. Mr. Balfour doubts whether
there is a case in our recent annals of a motion pro-
posed under such circumstances from the front
Opposition bench being thrown out by a majority of
213.

The principal speaker on the Opposition side was
Mr. Asquith- He always has at his command an
easy and admirable choice of language, and Mr.
Balfour invariably listens to him with a certain
measure of admiration, even when he most differs
from him. But Mr. Asquith’s task was on this
occasion beyond the power even of the most skilful
orator ; for he had to explain how, while agreeing with
Government, he was yet, in a moment of national
emergency, going to vote against them. In such a
cause no advocacy could be successful. After a large
number of speeches had been delivered, two of them
(by Mr. Lloyd George and Mr. John Burns) of extra-
ordinary violence, Sir H, Bannerman rose to conclude
the debate for the Opposition. His gifts, which are
considerable, do not specially qualify him for this
kind of effort ; he had no easy duty to fulfil, and it
cannot be said that he rose to the occasion. Mr.
Balfour, in replying for the Government, did not deem
it necessary to refer to anything he had said ; but
contented himself with dealing on broad lines with the
present position of affairs and the duty which the

* See atove, p. 477.

1900] KAISER’S ADVICE ABOUT SOUTH AERICA 488

House of Commons owe to the country in a moment
of national difficulty. The division took place soon
after twelve ; and its result was received with loud
and prolonged cheering.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 7th Feb. 1900. — When I came in received
a satisfactory telegram from Sir R. Buller, that he
had crossed the Tugela with little opposition or heavy
loss, and had occupied a position in the line of the
Boer defence. Though subjected to a heavy cross
fire, he was hopeful to be able to thrust the enemy
back on one side or the other, thus getting through.
This is so far .satisfactory. Also heard that Lord
Roberts and Lord Kitchener had left Cape Town,
The Lord Chancellor, come for one night, Annie
R[oxburghe], Sir F. and Lady Edwards, Sir J.
McNeill, and Major Colbourne dined. Had a good
deal of talk with the Lord Chancellor, who was as
delighted as I was at the large majority the night
before, 213, and at the enormous majority at York
of 1,500 for Mr, Faber,’- the Unionist member.

8th Feb. — Just before tea received the casualty
list from the fighting of the 5th and 6th, mercifully
an extremely small number. A ladies dinner. All,
including ri^self, are working for the soldiers.

The Prince of Wales to Queen Victoria,

MAULBOttOuca House, 8ih February 1000.

My dearest Mama, — enclose a letter * I received
two days ago from William with his Mem. on our

' Afterwards created Lord Wnttenham. This -was a by-election.

® The letter and a translation of the accompanying Memorandum
ate printed in full in Sidney Lee’s King Edward Vll, i, pp. 155-756 and
80T-810, along with a previous set of notes on the war which the German
Emperor sent to the Prince of Wales on 21st December 1899. The
last two paragraphs ran as Mlow.s : “ 21. The course sketched under
19 [suspension of the British advance in Soutlr Africa until reinforce-
ments rendered possible the concentration of an overwhelming army]
requites much time, perhaps till next autumn, but it might be of advan-
tage to the Army, and extricate it from its present unfavourable situa-
tion. Of course it would be -wise policy to place such a respite for the

jii — S2

484 PRINCE OP WALES’S REPLY [chap, xvi

present military situation in South Africa. I also
send a translation which I thought would be a con-
venience in case you would wish it shown to Lords
Salisbury and Lansdowne. Perhaps you would like
to have copies made of them and return me the
originals. I would call your attention to the last two
paragraphs, in which he hints broadly that foreign
Powers might intervene !

In answering his letter to-day I told him I could
not liken our conflict with the Boers to our defeat last
year by the Australians in the cricket matches we
played against them, as wc were fighting for the very
existence of our Empire, which he knew full well, and
that we must use every effort to prove victorious for
the sake of our supremacy in South Africa. . , .

Hoping that you are careful not to catch cold, I
remain, your devoted and affectionate son, Bertie.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, llth Feb. 1900. — Service at eleven, per-
formed by Mr. Clement Smith. This Sunday being
specially set apart for prayers and intercessions on
behalf of our troops in South Africa, for the success
of our operations, for the sick and wounded and those
in sorrow at home, we also had part of the service
which has been specially compiled by the Archbishop.
There were some very fine prayers, a special inter-
cession had been added to the Litany, and the hymns
were, “ 0 God, our help in ages past,” “ For our valiant
soldiers, Ford, to Thee we pray,” and “ Father
Almighty, King of Life and Power,” which latter I
had not heard before. Mr. Clement Smith read beauti-

Army in absolute safely against foreign Powers, the attainment of which
in the present situation of the world appears somewhat doubtful. The
present position of the war does not allow of doing anything decisive
from the military point of view. If therefore diplomacy cannot
guarantee absolutely to secure the respite just referred to, it would
certainly be better to bring matters to a settlement. 22, Even the
best football elub, if it is beaten notwithstanding the most gallant
defence, accepts finally its defeat with equanimity. Last year, in the
great crichet match of England v. Australia, the former took the victory
of the latter quietly, with chivalrous acknowledgment of her opponent.”

/f ~ of 6

\kof/l\ beff’'f Ai \ acifssii'rt

,b<-, 7ii (Ate tirti/inal in tAt- Mbrarx '^hnc^^iOi^

1900] QUEEN AND NATIVE FORCES 485

fully, and pi'eached a fine sermon. The whole wa.s
very impressive.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

11th Feb. 1900. — ^Thanks for your report on
yesterday’s Cabinet. Must express regret that after
approving actual wording of Proclamation, Govern-
ment have withheld it.

The safety of the country is our first and most
pressing consideration, and we ought not to he over-
apprehensive as to causing public fdarm so long as we
feel the precautions are necessary. I am no alarmist ;
but lately we have been deceived by the Boers, and are
suffering accordingly.

You make no mention of the Militia, which is the
Constitutional Force of the country, and ought to be
improved and kept up to its strength. Why will you
not call the whole force out ? It could be done,
Trust the Commander-in-Chief is consulted on all
military matters, including the Government scheme.

12th Feb. — ^Did you receive my letter of the
10th ? Regret want of agreement in Cabinet about
employment of Indian troops.

Not only have Boers invaded Zululand, but em-
ployed natives to fight against us. Surely this justifies
our using Indians. Do remember the enormous native
population in Natal, and consider the effect of our not
standing by the Zulus. Am greatly concerned at the
news from Kimberley and at disagreement between Sir
R. Buller and Lord Roberts, but I agree ■with the
latter’s views. Cannot help feeling disappointed at
my repeated recommendations being disregarded.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 12th Feb. 1900. — Lord Salisbury
. . . regrets very much that he has entirely failed
to persuade people of influence in this country and
in India of the danger which they run by not paying
sufficient attention to the feelings of Indians, espe-

486 LORD SALISBURY’S CAUTION [chap, xvi

dally of the Indian Princes. It is a grave error, for
which some day this country will pay dear.

But for Lord Salisbury to “ put his foot down ”
on a question where the great majority of his Cabinet,
and all the leading officials of both India Office and
War Office are against him, would mean breaking up
the Government, at a time when your Majesty might
have difficulty in forming another, and on an issue
which, when it became known, as it would certainly
do, would create serious discontent in India.

The telegrams which your Majesty will have
received from the War Office show that Lord Roberts
has quite lost confidence in General Buller. If your
Majesty’s recollection is correct, and Lord Salisbury
did really dissuade you from appointing Kitchener,
he deeply regrets it. But his own recollection is that
he was never told that your Majesty recommended
Kitchener ; and never knew it till you mentioned
it the other day at Windsor. Though there was then
no ground for believing that Buller would fail so
seriously as he has done, it was a mistake to appoint
a man who had never been tried with any independent
command of importance. But for that mistake
Lord Salisbury is quite as responsible as any other
of your Majesty’s advisers.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.]

lUh Feb, 1900. — ^Please let me know what steps you
intend to take to protect the Zulus from being attacked
by the Boers. Feel certain you agree with me that we
are bound in honour to stand by my native subjects.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

15th Feb. 1900. — Mr. Chamberlain with his humble
duty to your Majesty begs to inform your Majesty
that Lord Lansdowne is telegraphing to General
Buller to know what provision he is making for the
defence of Zululand. Recent telegrams from Cover-

1000] RELIEF OF KIMBERLEY 48Y

nor of Natal indicate that the invasion is not serious,
and that the Boers are not at present attacking the
Zulus, hut only British posts in their country, but
Mr. Chamberlain hopes that troops may be spared
to expel the invaders.

Extract from the Queen^s J ournal.

Osborne, IGth Feb. 1900. — While we were at
breakfast a telegram arrived with the most welcome
and almost unexpected news of the relief of Kimberley.
The following is what Lord Roberts telegraphed from
Jacobsdal to Lord Lansdownc : “ French, with horse
artillery, cavalry, and mounted infantry, reached
Kimberley this evening.” Went to Ryde in the
afternoon to visit the Infirmary. After tea received the
folloiving satisfactory telegrams : Lord Roberts wires
from Jacobsdal, 16th February : “ French telegraphs :

‘ Have completely dispersed enemy from southern
side of Kimberley, from Alexandersfontein to Oli-
phantsfontein, and now occupy their ground. Have
captured enemy laager, store depot of supplies and
ammunition, fcmberley cheerful and well.’ ” Lord
Roberts telegraphs further : “ Have good reason for
belief that the Magersfontein trenches have been
abandoned, and that the Boers are endeavouring to
escape. French is scouring the country north of
Kimberley. One of Kenny’s brigades of infantry is
in pursuit of very large Boer convoy, moving towards
Bloemfontein,”

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, IGih Feb. 1900. — ^Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
submits that a Cabinet was held yesterday, ... It
was not possible to make any progress with the matter
which very justly interests your Majesty so much,
namely, the employment in Zululand of coloured, and
specially of Indian, troops. Since last Cabinet the
Colonial Secretary has been in communication with
the Government of Natal on this subject. Lord

488 RESERVE BATTALIONS [chap, xvx

Salisbury ventures to enclose — though probably your
Majesty has already received them — the two most
important telegrams of this correspondence. From
these it will appear that, in spite of the efforts of the
Governor under the instructions of Mr. Chamberlain,
the Natal Government are unanimously opposed to
the employment of any native troops, and especially
of any Indian troops. It was generally felt that it
would not be wise, and scarcely right, to quarrel at
this juncture with a Colony which has been so loyal
as Natal, and which has suffered so much for its
loyalty. But this ineradicable race prejudice is
deeply to be regretted. . . .

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Qtieen Victoria.

War Ofrice, IGth Feb. 1900. — ^Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he has
the honour to inform your Majesty that the Cabinet
yesterday authorised the payment to the “ veterans,”
whom it is proposed to raise as “ Reserve Battalions,”
of a bounty of £12 on enrolment, and £10 at the
conclusion of their year’s service. This offer should,
Lord Lansdowne thinks, attract a good number of
men, especially as it will be made known that the
demands upon their time will be far from excessive.
Their service will of course be at home only.

Lord Lansdowne has always regretted that the
proposal that your Majesty should invite these men
by Royal Proclamation was abandoned. He ven-
tures, however, to suggest for your Majesty’s con-
sideration that the success of the scheme would be
greatly increased if your Majesty were pleased,
either by an announcement in the newspapers, such
as is sometimes made by your command, or by a
letter written to the Commandcr-in-Chief and signed
by Sir Arthur Bigge, to express your approval of the
scheme, and your hope that the invitation would be
promptly and numerously responded to. It was the
form rather than the substance of the Proclamation
to which exception was taken.

1900] king of DENMAKK’S CONGRATULATIONS 489

Lord Lansdownc may explain that the £22 which
the “ veteran ” will receive is almost exactly the
equivalent of the extra pay which the Commander-
in-Chief recommended. Should your Majesty think
well to order that these battalions are to be styled
“ Royal Reserve Battalions,” their popularity would
certainly be increased.

Lord Lansdowne offers his congratulations to
your Majesty on the brilliant commencement of Lord
Roberts’s operations.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Telegram.]

Idtk Feh. 1900. — Thank you for your letter of
to-day, the contents of which seem to be quite satis-
factory, I will gladly act on the lines suggested.

I am indeed dehghted at and thankful for Lord
Roberts’s successful operations.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria,

Hubebtusstock, IQtk Feb. 1900. — ^Beg to place
sincerest thanks at your feet for the great news.
How happy Mr. Rhodes ^ will be ! . . . William.

[Telegram.] Sir Edmund Fane^ to Queen Victoria.

Copenhagen, 17th Feb. 1900. — Humble duty.
The King was so gracious as to call in person at your
Majesty’s Legation this afternoon in order to impart
to me the news of the relief of Kimberley, and to
express his deep pleasure at the success of your
Majesty’s arms. Edmund Fane.

[Copy.] Sir Arthur Bigge to Viscount Wolseley.

Osborne, Xrth February 1900.

My dear Lord Wolseley, — As so large a pro-
portion of the Army is now in South Africa, the
Queen fully realises that necessary measures must
be adopted for Home Defence.

Her Majesty is advised that it would be possible

* Mr. Rhodes was in Kimberley throughout the siege.

^ Minister at Copenhagen.

i92 CAPITULATION OF GENERAL CRONJE [chap, svi

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 23rd Feb. 1900. — After lun-
cheon saw poor Lady Roberts, who was very overcome
at seeing me, but was wonderfully calm. She ex-
pressed herself as most grateful for my sympathy.
She said how pleased Lord Roberts was with Lord
Kitchener. I then conferred on her the order of the
Crown of India, which she said she felt she did not
deserve, but that nothing would give Lord Roberts
more pleasure than her receiving it. I also saw her
second daughter, who seems very nice.

ITelegram,] Lord Roberts to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Paardeberg, 26th Feb. 1900. — ^Following message
received from General French ; “ Cavalry division
received your Majesty’s most gracious message with
pride, enthusiasm. On their behalf General French
asks leave tender their grateful sense your Majesty’s
recognition their services.” Roberts.

Extract from the Queen's J ournaL
Windsor Castle, 27th Feb. 1900. — ^Received
during breakfast the following telegram : “ General
Cronje and his whole force capitulated at daybreak
this morning, unconditionally. He is now a prisoner
in my camp. Hope H.M.’s Government will consider
this satisfactory, occurring as it does on the anniversary
of Majuba. Roberts.” We are all greatly rejoiced,
for it is indeed grand news.

At 11.20 left for Netley. Sir Baker Russell
received us at the station, and the principal authorities
received us at the door of the hospital. Went up in
the lift to the second floor, where all the wounded
were assembled, almost all, with few exceptions, being
able to stand in the corridors. They looked wonder-
fully well, considering how badly they had been
w'ounded. Far the greatest number were from the
Highland Brigade, which suffered so at Magersfontein.
I handed flowers to those in bed. There were a good
many Guardsmen, and also men from the Irish

403

1000] QUEEN AND HER IRISH SOLDIERS

regiments. Then we went to the wards and corridors
in which were the sick. It was sad to see so many mth
heart disease brought on by overmarching and hard
work.

Another long telegrana arrived from Lord Uoberts,
saying that the prisoners numbered 4,000, and six guns
were taken. Cronje had asked to be kindly treated,
and that his wife, grandson, secretary, adjutant, and
servants might be with him wherever he was sent.
This was granted, and they were all despatched
yesterday to Cape Town, Georgie, May, and their
children arrived during the evening.

{Telegram^ Qiieen Victoria to Lord Roberts.

Windsor Castle, 27th Feb. 1900. — ^Accept for
yourself and all under your command my warmest
congratulations on this splendid news. Y. R. I,

[Telegram.] Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Paardeberg, 2Sth Feb. 1900. — I and all under my
command are deeply grateful for your Majesty’s most
gracious message. The congratulations of their Queen
is an honour soldiers dearly pride. Lord Roberts.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Sir Redvers Buller.

27th Feb. 1900. — I have heard with the deepest
concern of the heavy losses sustained by my brave
Irish soldiers. I desire to express my sympathy and
my admiration of the splendid fighting qualities
which they have exhibited throughout these trying
operations. Y. R. I.

[Telegram.] Sir Redvers Buller to Queen Victoria.

Headquarters, Hlangwani Plain, 2Sih Feb.
1 000. — Sir Redvers Buller has, on the part of the Irish
Brigade, to thank the Queen for her gracious telegram
of sympathy and encouragement. General Buller.

[Telegram.] The Queen of Sweden to Queen Victoria,
Stockholm, 28th Feb. 1900. — I cannot refrain
from expressing mv heartfelt sympathy and congratu-

494 RELIEF OP LADYSMITH [chap, xvi

lations on the splendid successes of your Majesty’s
troops, hoping they will contribute to the speedy
conclusion of peace. The King joins with me in
expressions of sympathy. Sophie,

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 1st March 1900. — Before I got
up Lizzie Stewart, my wardrobe maid, came in saying
the telegraph boy had just come in with a telegram
he was anxious I should have at once. It was as
follows : “ Dunclonald with Natal Carabineers and
composite regiment entered Ladysmith last night.
The country between me and there is reported clear
of the enemy, I am moving on Nelthorpe. Buller.”
My joy was unbounded, and I let everyone in the
Castle know, and telegraphed to the relations.
Telegraphed to Sir R. Buller and to his wife. Tele-
grams poured in all day from public bodies and
private people.

After luncheon I had an Investiture, Georgie
standing by me and assisting me in putting on the
decorations, and I used his sword for the few knight-
hoods.

Received another telegram from Sir R. Buller
saying, “ I have just returned from Ladysmith, where
I found the garrison on a lb. of meal a day, supple-
mented by horse flesh. The men will require a little
nursing before being fit for service in the field again.”

The only Sovereign who telegraphed spontaneously
was the King of Sweden.

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

1st March 1900. — ^Lord Wolseley presents his
humble duty to the Queen, and ventures to con-
gratulate her Majesty upon the success of her soldiers
in relieving Ladysmith. Lord Wolseley feels that the
Queen’s appreciation of the gallant services rendered
by her Irish soldiers will have a magical effect upon
that sentimental and imaginative race all over the
world.

495

1900] SHAMROCK FOR IRISH REGIMENTS

Acting upon the Queen’s initiative in this matter,
Lord Wolseley would presume to suggest that the
Queen should now order all her Irish regiments to
wear the “ shamrock ” in their head-dress on the
17th instant, to he worn by all her Irish regiments
in future years on Saint Patrick’s Day as a mark of
her Majesty’s appreciation of the daring displayed by
her loyal Irish soldiers in the recent operations near
Ladysmith. Every year, Irish Members of Parliament
make much capital out of the fact that Irish regiments
are not allowed to wear this shamrock, which Irishmen
generally recognise as a national emblem.

If the Queen approves of this suggestion I would
have that approval telegraphed to South Africa
without delay. I have the honour to be, her Majesty’s
humble and most faithful servant, Wolseley,

The King of Portugal to Queen Victoria.

Libbonke, 1" Mars 1900.

Ma chere Tante, — Je viens de savoir a I’instant
par depeche de Several I’heureuse nouvelle de la
liberation de Ladysmith, apres le siege heroique
que VOS vaillants soldats ont supporte avec tant de
courage et d’abnegation I

Cette nouvelle, venant tout de suite apres celle
de la reddition de Cronje, doit avoir rempli de joie
votre coeur !

Je vous prie, chere Tante, d’accepter mes plus
sineeres felicitations, envoyees de tout coeur, et
de me croire toujours votre neveu respectueux et
d6voue qui vous baise la main, Carlos.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Calcutta, 1st March
1900. — . . . The news of the grand victories in
South Africa has been coming in. Lord Roberts’s
success two days ago, the relief of Ladysmith just
now. Lord Roberts’s statue in the Maidan is covered
with garlands and wreaths ; and the natives are just
as pleased as ourselves.

496 QUEEN’S THANItFUL TELEGRAMS [chap, xvi

We sent off our batch of Indian volunteers a few
days ago ; and the public, who gathered in thousands,
gave them a great farewell.

How gratifying it must be to your Majesty to see
the tide turning at last ! It is a recompense for all
the anxiety and losses of the past few months, and
for the insults which have been heaped upon England
by the foreign Press. . . .

[T'clegram.] Queen Victoria to Sir George White.

Windsor Castle, 1st March 1900. — ^Thank God
that you and all those with you are safe after your
long and trying siege borne with such heroism, and I
congratulate you and all under you from the bottom
of my heart. Trust you are all not very much
exhausted. V. R. I.

\Telegram.'\ Queen Victoria to Lady White.

Windsor Castle, 1st March 1900. — Accept my
warmest congratulations on this delightful news, of
the relief of Ladysmith, and the safety of your most
gallant husband, and all under him. His heroism
was splendid. Sir R. BuUer and all under him have
had a fearfully difficult and trying task, which has
been most admirably accomplished. V. R. I.^

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Sir Bedvers BuUer,

2nd March 1900. — Hope General White and his
foree are fairly well. Trust you and your troops not
too much done up after your great exertions. Pray
express my deep appreciation to the Naval Brigade
for the valuable services they have rendered with
their guns. V. R. I.

Eoolracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 2nd March 1900. — Just before
luncheon received the followdng touching answer
from Sir G. Wliitc to my telegram expressing my

Lady White replied by telegram: “Your Majesty’s gracious
message ero^ms my happiness.”

1900] LADYSMITH MAYOR AND QUEEN 497

admiration for the way in which they had borne this
fearful long siege : “ Your Majesty’s most gracious
message has been received by me with deepest grati-
tude and with enthusiasm by the troops. Any
privations and hardships are 100 times compensated
by the sympathy and appreciation of our Queen, and
your Majesty’s message will do more to restore both
officers and men than anything else.”

3rd March. — ^Arthur and LouivSehen left this
morning, and I had a long conversation with him about
my going abroad, which I fear will not be advisable or
safe just now, and about a possible idea of mine to
go to Ireland, if I cannot go to the south.

Received a telegram from Sir R, Buller in answer
to mine in which he says : “ Troops much appreciate
your Majesty’s kind telegram. Your Majesty cannot
know how much your sympathy has helped to inspire
them.” I also heard from General Broeklehurst in which
he said : “ General Buller has just ridden in; his face
was fair to look upon.” This made us laugh very much.

[Telegram.] The Mayor of Ladysmith to Queen Victoria.

3rd March 1900. — ^The Mayor and Town Council
and lately besieged residents beg most respectfully to
express to your Most Gracious Majesty the Queen
the imfeigned feelings of joy and thankfulness occa-
sioned bythe relief of the town, also to express to your
Majesty the unbounded loyalty of your people and
their highest admiration of the brilliant achievements
gamed by your Majesty’s brave soldiers over a for-
midable enemy.

Queen Victoria to the Mayor and People of Ladysmith.
[Telegram.]

5th March 1900. — thank you for your loyal
message, and greatly rejoice with you at your relief
which, through the gallant perseverance of my troops,
has been accomplished after the long and trying
siege, which, to the admiration of the whole Empire,
you have so patiently and bravely endured.

498

CREATION OE "IRISH GUARDS” [chap, xvi

The Marqui/i of Lansdozme to Sir Arthur Big^e.

Bowood, 3 rd Match 1900,

My dear Bigge, — ^The fine conduct of the Irish
regiments during the war and her Majesty’s gracious
interest m them suggested to several of us the idea
that the time might have come when the Queen might
he pleased to authorise the creation of a regiment of
Irish Guards, I helievc such a step would be
popular in Ireland and with the Army, and that it
would have the efiect of giving us a very valuable
accession of strength,

I had intended to approach her Majesty on this
subject after I had had time to go closely into the
question and to ivork out the details of a proposal.
But I see that Sir J. W. Maclure, M,P., has put down
a question on the subject for Tuesday next, and no
time ought therefore to be lost in ascertaining whether
her Majesty is upon the whole favourable or imfavour-
able to the project.

If the Queen has no objection the answer might be
something of this sort : “ Proposal of this kind is about
to be submitted to her Majesty,” and, if the Queen
so desired, we could add, “ and there is every reason
to anticipate that it will be favourably entertained.”

I write from Bow'ood, but return to London on
Monday. Yours sincerely, Lansdowne.

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

[ Copyi \ Windsor Casile, 5 th March 1900.

My dear Lord Lansdowne, — ^By a curious
coincidence the Queen has during the past week been
seriously considering the question of a regiment of
Irish Guards, thinking that the present was an oppor-
tunity for its creation. Therefore I am glad to be
able to tell you that the Queen entirely approves of
the idea and of your proposed reply to be given
to Sir J. W. Maclure’s question in the House of Com-
mons on Tuesday next.

Her Majesty asked the Duke of Connaught to

1900]| KING LEOPOLD’S CONGRATULATIONS 400

speak to the Commander-in-Chief on the subject, and
hopes that you will therefore find that Lord Wolseley
is already in possession of her Majesty’s views. Yours
very truly, Abthue Bioge.

The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria.

Chateau de LiVUKBN, 4 Afars 1000.

Ma chere Cousine, — ^Daignez me permettre de
deposer a vos picds la nouvelle expression de mon
admiration pour I’endurance, le courage et toutes Ics
superbes qualites de vos armees. C’est E chcz moi
un bien ancien sentiment, et je ne fais que saisir I’oc-
casion de vous en redire la sincerit6. L’habilcte de
Ld. Roberts lui a valu des succ^s signales, rapides
et de la plus haute importance.

Ce qui frappe encore, chere Cousine, c’est le patrio-
tisme effectif non seulement du peuple de la Grande
Bretagne mais aussi de ses Colonies et dependances, et
les qualitds militaires des contingents du Canada, de
I’Australie et des autres. Ce spectacle est grandiose
et imique.

Nul Empire plus que le v6tre, ch^re Cousine, fort
de ses forces qui comprennent une si notable partie
de Thumanite, n’est davantage en situation pour
contribuer au bonheur du monde, au d6veloppement
de sa prosperite et aux progres des idees genereuses
et de justice entre les nations.

Je vous baise la main, ch^re Cousine, et je suis pour
la vie, votre tout devoud cousin, Leopold.

The Prince of Wales to Queen Victoria.

Mabeborough House, Bth Match 1SK)0.

My dearest Mama, — 'The enclosed letter ^ I have
received from William to-day, and send it you at once,
and perhaps you will let Lord Salisbury see it. The
conduct of Mouravieff is really too monstrous. How
long will the long-suffering Nicky be taken in by him ?

^ The priacipal part of this letter of 8rd March is printed in King
Edward VII, vol i, p. 789, revealing a proposal of Count Mouravieff
for collective action to enforce peace.

m — 83

§0O queen going- 'TO IRELAND [chap, xvi

William, I am sure, wishes to be our true friend, and
he indeed deserves our thanhs and confidence.

Now let me thank you for writing to tell me that
you have given up your intention of going to Italy this
spring. It is, I am sure, a wise decision for so many
reasons, though I regret your missing the fine climate,
sunshine, and blue sky. Georgy has told me in confi-
dence of your idea of going to Ireland next month, I
rejoice to hear of it, as it will, I am sure, have the best
possible effect, and interest you also in so many ways !
Vicky has also written to me that she hopes you will
not go abroad, though she forgoes the great pleasure
of seeing you, hut says she will make an effort to come
over and see you. If she makes the journey by slow
stages I hope it wiU do her no harm. . , ,

You will, I am sure, urge your Government to be
firm, should the Boers and Freestaters treat for peace.
We must impose the conditions, however unpleasant
they must be for them, so as to prevent the recurrence
of such a war again, and not allow any foreign Power
to intervene !

With Alix’s best love, I remain, your devoted and
affectionate son, Bertie.

Viscount Wolseley to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Sth March 1000.

My DEAR Bigge, — ^Does the Queen approve of
the enclosed proposed General Order ? I want to
emphasise as much as possible that this is a personal
gift of distinction from the Sovereign to her Irish
regiments. The Welsh Fusiliers wear the leek on
St. David’s Day and the Northumberland Fusiliers
cover themselves with roses upon St. George’s Day.

If the Queen approves, would you kindly telegraph
this to me to-morrow, and I will have it specially issued,
and will telegraph it to Lord Roberts for promulgation
in General Orders in South Africa,

You can easily telegraph to me any corrections
the Queen, may wish to have made in the wording.
Very sincerely yours, Wolsedey.

1900] ARMY ORDER— THE SHAMROCK 501

[Draft-enclosure.] Ahmy Order.

Special.

War OincE, 7 ih March 1900.

The following Instruction is promulgated to the
Army with the approval of the Secretary of State for
War.

Gallantry of Irish Regiments in South Africa — ^Distinc-
tion TO BE Worn on St. Patrick’s Day.

Her Majesty the Queen is pleased to order that in future, upon
St. Patrick’s Day, all ranks in her Majesty’s Irish regiments
shall -wear, as a distinction, a sprig of shamrock in their head-
dress, to commemorate the gallantry of her Irish soldiers during
the recent battles in South Africa.

WoDSELEY F.-M., Commander-in-Chief.

Lieutenant Zavertal to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Woolwich, Sth March 1900.

Sir, — I had the great honour of receiving my
Commission to-day from Colonel Barrington Foote ;
and it has the most precious signature of the Queen !

It is quite impossible for me to express how proud
and happy I am in its possession ; I can hardly realise
that it is really mine. I am, sir, yours obediently,
Ladislao Zavertal,^

Earl Cadogan to Queen Victoria.

Dublin Castle, Qth March 1900. — ^The Lord-
Lieutenant of Ireland presents his humble duty to
your Majesty, and begs to be allowed to express his
heartfelt gratitude to your Majesty for the gracious
intimation which he has this day received through his
Royal Highness the Duke of Connaught.

The annovmcement of your Majesty’s intention to
pay a visit to Ireland will be received with unbounded
loyalty and pleasure by your Majesty’s subjects in
this country ; and the Lord-Lieutenant cannot doubt
that the conspicuous mark of favour which your

I See above, p. 411.

302 PREPARATIONS IN IRELAND [chap, xvi

Majesty proposes to confer upon the people of Ireland
will be enthusiastically welcomed by them. The
Lord-Lieutenant ventures to add that he wiU use his
utmost endeavours to obey your Majesty’s commands,
and to render the royal visit as agreeable to your
Majesty as possible.

The Duke of Connaught intimated that your
Majesty would inhabit the Viceregal Lodge, which
can at once be prepared for the reception of your
Majesty’s establishment.

The Lord-Lieutenant begs humbly to suggest that
if the annoimcement of the royal visit might Ije made
without delay, he could proceed at once to make the
arrangements which must of necessity be carried out.
He will therefore await the favour of your Majesty’s
commands as to the time and manner of publication
of your Majesty’s decision, after which he wiU lose
no time in giving all instructions to those concerned.
The Lord -Lieutenant believes that it will be quite
possible to have everything in readiness by the date
indicated by the Duke of Connaught, which was
imderstood to be about a month from the present
time. He begs to add that in this, as in all other
matters, he places his humble services at the entire
disposal of your Majesty.

T}ie Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoina.
{Cypher Telegrayni]

7tk March 1900. — . . . It had better be announced
as soon as possible, as it is certain to get out, I
should think the annormcement had better be infor-
mal, like the announcement of your Majesty’s inten-
tion not to go to Italy. If it is thought necessary
that it should he done in a formal maimer, a letter to
the Viceroy w'ould be the best method. But as the
visit is not a State visit, I prefer the informal plan.

[Same day.] — Lord Salisbury with his humble duty
respectfully thanks your Majesty for having allowed
him to see tlie Prince of Wales’s letter, including that
of the Emperor William and that of Lord Cadogan. . . ,

1900] THE QUEEN AND HEH CAPITAL 50S

Count Mouravieff’s proceedings are very inexplicable.
It is impossible to believe that he accurately represents
the feelings of the Emperor of Russia.

Your Majesty will before this have received the
translation of the remarkable message from the two
Presidents.! It coincides curiously with the message
of the Emperor of Russia to the Emperor of Germany.
They are evidently part of the same movement in-
tended to operate on the minds of the pro-Boer people
in this country. These arc not many, but they are
noisy.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the German Emperor.

Windsor Castle, Ith March IflOO.

Dear William, — I wish to thank you for your
last kind letter, sent through Colonel Grierson, and
at the same time for your kind and friendly expressions
and views of the war in South Africa, as expressed
both to Uncle Bertie and Sir Erank LasceUes.

I sincerely hope that your example may at last
be followed by other Powers, and that the German
Press may cease abusing and reviling us and telling
lies about our army. Under these circiunstances,
while affairs, including the war, are so uncertain, I
have given up going abroad, but intend paying a
visit to Ireland quite early next month.

The marvellous and most gratifying loyalty and
devotion of my Indian Empire and the Colonies is a
most important and satisfactory event.

You must admire, I am sure, not only Sir G. White
but Sir Redvers Buller, whose task was most difficult,
and also Lord Roberts, so ably supported by Lord
Kitchener, ... V. R. I.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Buckingham Palace, Sth March 1900. — Left
Windsor at half -past eleven with Beatrice and Thora,
Emily A[mptliill], Marie M[aUet], the equerries,
Colonel Legge and Colonel Davidson, in attendance.

‘ See Introduotorv Note to this diapter.

604, BOTH HOUSES AT THE PALACE [chap, xvi

At the station at Paddington an Irish terrier, who
carries a collecting box and goes round to everybody
for money, came into the saloon, and I put £l into
the box, for which he gave three barks, to express
his thanks.

We three drove the usual way to Buckingham
Palace, and I received a perfect ovation from thousands
and thousands of people assembled along the whole
route. There were deafening cheers and waving of
handkerchiefs and small flags, quite indescribably
enthusiastic. It was most touching. I drove in
through the principal gate, like for a triumphal entry,
and inside the quadrangle were assembled Members
of the House of Lords and House of Commons, who
cheered very much, and sang God Save the Queen.
Lord Cross and Mr. Chamberlain, who were at the
head, came up to the carriage to speak to me for a
moment, as did also Lady Audrey Buller and her
daughter, who had been standing outside with some
other ladies. Got some good news from Lord Roberts,
who had completely routed the Boers, ^ having turned
their flank. They had a very strong position, which
would have caused us much loss had we been obliged
to make a frontal attack. No end of letters and
telegrams of all kinds coming in, some such kind ones.

At a quarter to four started with Lenchen and
Beatrice, who sat opposite to me, Thora following
in a second carriage with Emily A,, Marie M., and
Colonel Davidson, for the City. Colonel Legge rode,
and I had a travelling escort of the Blues. There
were deafening cheers h’ora a huge crowd outside the
Palace. We proceeded up the Mall, Northumberland
Avenue to the Embankment, at the end of which, near
to Blackfriars, stood the Lord Mayor and Aldermen in
full robes . We stopped, and he came up to the carriage
to present his sword, which I touched. He expressed
his loyalty and devotion, and I said I was very grate-
ful for all the City had done, to which he replied that
he ■would cherish my words for ever and ever in his

1 At Poplar’s Grove, on the march to Bloemfontein.

1900] LONG DRIVE THROUGH LONDON 505

breast. I then shook hands with the Lady Mayoress,
and we went on by Ludgate Hill and Circus, Holborn,
Oxford Street, the Marble Arch, through the park,
then down Piccadilly and St. James’s Street back
to the Palace. Everywhere the same enormous
crowds and incessant demonstrations of enthusiasm ;
if possible, even beyond that of the two Jubilees,

It was getting a little cold by the time we came
home, but not unpleasantly so. There were many
flags hung out and across the streets. Had tea
together. The news continue very satisfactory. Lord
Roberts telegraphs that Kruger and Steyn were
supposed to have been with the Boers in the last
battle. During dinner there was a great deal of
cheering and singing outside, and I went to the win-
dow, a light being held behind me. The cheering was
tremendous. There were several thousand people
assembled.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 8th March 1900. — Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty hopes he is not
going beyond his duty in informing your Majesty how
great was the gratification of Members of the House
of Commons at having the opportunity of taking part
in the reception which the Metropolis this day gave
to your Majesty. Mr. Balfour himself, to his deep
regret, was not present. He rather feared that the
presence either of Mr. Speaker or of the leader of the
House might give an air of pre-arrangement and
formality to a proceeding which was essentially in-
formal and spontaneous in its character. But he has
been at pains to gauge the feelings of Members of the
House of Commons, and he can speak, therefore, with
confidence as to the enthusiasm which' animated all
parties in the legislature on the occasion.

Two incidents of special interest occurred before
the regular business of the evening commenced. One
was the statement by Mr. Balfour that your Majesty
proposed to sanction the formation of an Irish regi-

508 KAISER AND BOER OVERTURES [chap, xti

the latter said he quite expected. I also sent a private
cypher to Sir Frank Lascelles asking him to explain
our position to WiUiain.

{Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Heligoland, llih March 1900. — Through the
medium of my Consulate at Pretoria the Transvaal
Government has telegraphed en elair to the Foreign
Office in Berlin asking my Government for a “ friendly
intervention ” on behalf of the South African Repub-
lics and the restoration of peace. I have ordered the
Foreign Office to answer as follows ;

The first and paramount question to be settled before steps
for “ Friendly Mediation ” could be taken "was whether both
antagonists were ready to accept it, i.e. whether England was also
ready to do so. Only in case this question should have been
answered in the affirmative my Government would of course be
happy to lend a hand to bring about a peaceful issue. My Govern-
ment further suggests that the Republics would do well, in order
to find out whether her Majesty’s Government just now would
be in a mood to accept mediation at all, to directly enquire in
London ; and, if this did not suit them, to refer to any third
Power not vitally interested in South Africa, Germany being
materially interested. It was the duty of my Government to
refrain from taking any steps in this matter which would be
liable to be misunderstood in England, and which could give rise
to the suspicion that we were prompted by other than purely
humanitarian motives. This would only jeopardise the cause of
peace instead of serving it.

Queen Victoria to the German Emperor.

[Copy.] {Telegram^

llth March 1900. — Most grateful to you. Am
very sensible of your friendly interest in the matter
referred to, and for the answer which you ordered your
Foreign Office to send.

Queen Victoria to Sir Frank Lascelles.
[Cypher Telegram.]

llth March 1900. — ^You will have heard what has
taken place. The Emperor telegraphed in the kindest
way direct to me, to which I have answered but only
generally, as it must go en clair, but please convey to

S09

1900] QUEEN’S PLAIN WORDS TO KAISER

the Emperor that my whole nation is with me in a
fixed determination to see this war through without
intervention.

The time for, and the terms of, peace must be left
to our decision, and my country, which is suffering
from so heavy a sacrifice of precious lives, will resist all
interference.

The Emperor has proved himself such a Icind friend
to England and so affectionate to me that I wish him
to know the true position of things.

Sir Frank Lascelles to the German Emperor.

\Copyi\ BrnuN, \%lh March 1900.

SiaE, — I have the honour to forward to your
Majesty a careful paraphrase of a telegram which I
received this morning from the Queen, and which I
hope may be satisfactory to your Majesty, not only
as a recognition by the Queen of your Majesty’s kind
friendship for England and affection for her, but also
as a proof of the accuracy of your Majesty’s foresight.
I have telegraphed to the Queen that, in consequence
of your Majesty’s absence from Berlin, I have ventured
to convey her Majesty’s message by means of a letter.
I have, etc., etc., etc., Frank C. Lascelles.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Eobeign Office, I 2 th March 1900.

My dear Sir Arthur, — ^Many thanks for your
telegrams. I think they will answer their purpose
admirably. I am very glad it fell to the Queen to do
it. It would not have been convenable for me to use
such strong language. Yours very truly, Salisbury.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

13th March 1900. — Sir Francis Knollys writes, in
returning the copies of your Majesty’s telegrams to the
German Emperor :

“ The Prince of Wales thinks the answers are quite
excellent. I venture to say that the one to Lascelles
is worthy of Queen Elizabeth.”

510

LORD CURZON ON THE WAR [chap, xvi

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Vicehoy’s Camp, Lumding, Assam, 11th March
1900. — . , . It has been such a pleasure to read in
Reuter of the great reception that has, as always,
been given to your Majesty during your recent pro-
gress through the streets of London ; and also to
learn of your projected visit to Ireland. That your
Majesty should be willing to undertake this great
exertion is to set a noble example to all in high
places, and will arouse to a white heat of enthusiasm
the emotional nature of the Irish people.

When the war is over the nation wiU be all the
better for the stern discipline through which it will
have passed : our reverses will have shown us the
many joints in our armour ; while the Empire will
for the first time have learned the incalculable value
of its own unity. Wliat a pride it will be to your
Majesty to have lived to see such a day !

The Viceroy is in humble agreement with all that
your Majesty says about the Native Princes. He
would gladly see them employed in your Majesty’s
service, in many countries and lands ; and he hopes,
in the course of the ensuing summer, when he has more
time, to draw up some scheme for utilising their
wasted military energies and desires.

The Famine Fund is being splendidly taken up
both in India and at home ; and the Viceroy has just
received a telegram from the Maharajah of Jaipur
offering the princely sum of 15 lacs, or £100,000, as
an endowment, so to speak, the annual interest of
which is to be devoted to famine prevention.

There never was a time when loyalty and devotion
were more widely spread among the Indian Chiefs,
and, in the Viceroy’s opinion, these feelings are
capable of being even more warmly stimulated and
confirmed in the future.

There is a suggestion which it has occurred to him
to make to your Majesty, who might be willing to make
some sort of personal acknowledgment of the principal

1900] AND ON NATIVE PRINCES 511

offers of loyal assistance that have been received in
connection with the war from the Indian Princes.
Many of these have no suitable picture or likeness of
your Majesty to hang in their Palaces. Would it be
a possible thing for your Majesty to have prepared
and framed a number of highly enlarged photographic
likenesses of yourself, and possibly even to sign them
with your own hand as a gift to the Princes concerned?
The idea has occurred to the Viceroy, from having
heard recently from a visitor to the Maharajah of
Kashmir’s Court at Jammu, that there was only in
the Palace a bad chromo-lithographic likeness of
your Majesty, while there was a fine autograph
photograph of the German Emperor. Should your
Majesty be favourably disposed towards the idea, the
Viceroy would gladly draw up a list of the Chief's to
whom such a distinction might properly be paid,

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

10 Downing Street, Idth March 1900 . — , , .
Perhaps the most interesting episode of the sitting
was the reception of the correspondence between the
President of the Orange and Transvaal States on the
one side and the Prime Minister on the other, re-
specting the terms of peace. As your Majesty is aware,
the Prime Minister’s letter annormces that we cannot
consent to leave the Republics their independence.
This announcement was received with loud applause
by the Unionist Party and in absolute silence by the
Opposition.

\Telegram^ Lord Roberts to Qiiee7i Victoria.

Bloemfontein, 13th March ( 1900 ). — ^By the help
of God and by the bravery of her Majesty’s soldiers
the troops under my command have taken possession
of Bloemfontein. The British flag now flies over the
Presidency vacated last evening by Mr. Steyn, late
President of the Orange Free State. Mr. Fraser,
Member of the late Executive Government, the Mayor,
the Secretary to the late Gk>verMnent, the Landrost,

512 LORD ROBERTS IN BLOEMFONTEIN [chap, xvi

and other officials met me two miles from the town,
and presented me with the keys of the Public Offices.
The enemy have withdrawn from the neighbourhood,
and all seems quiet. The inhabitants of Bloemfontein
gave the troops a cordial welcome.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor io Queen Victoria.

Kiel, lUh March 1900. — ^Many thanks for your
kind message to me through Sir Frank. It is exactly
what I answered to Count Mouravieff, and in perfect
harmony with the views I take of the actual situation,
and which I have always advocated.

After nearly 14-, 000 officers and men have shed
their blood for Queen and country, there can be only
this issue.

I inspected Harry’s old flagship Deutschland
to-day, and was glad to find her in excellent order and
manned by a crew proof of first-rate marksmanship
at target practice. William I. R.

Sir Frank Lascelles to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.]

15th March 1900. — ^Humble duty. Following is
the substance of a telegram received last night from
the Emperor :

“ Best thanks. Hardly had (?) [expected] her
Majesty’s message. It is so kind of her to have found
time to think of me. It is a corroboration of ray
views, and proves that I understood rightly the drift
of feelings entertained by your countrymen. The
blood of 14,000 officers and men has cemented that
land to yours once and for ever.”

The Earl of Rosebery to Queen Victoria.

ISth March 1900.

Madam, — I have hesitated whether to write to
your Majesty, but at last cannot refrain from acting
on the permission given me on my resignation to
commimicate from time to time to your Majesty.
For last week seems to me a matchless epoch, even in

1900] LORD ROSEBERY ON QUEEN’S EXERTIONS 513

your Majesty’s glorious reign. The renunciation of
the tour abroad, the announcement of the visit to
Ireland, the extraordinarily dexterous and sym-
pathetic order about the shamrock, and the visit to
London make up a period which it was a privilege to
live through. How can we all thank or repav your
Majesty !

There is only one of these events which can cause
even a shadow of regret. The tour abroad has been
so beneficial to your Majesty’s health that all Britain
would grieve if the loss of it were felt by your Majesty.
Otherwise we can only glory in it all. I think the visit
to London far more interesting and touching than
even the Jubilees : it was more simple and spontan-
eous. It was as if a great wave of sympathy and
devotion had passed over the capital. Your Majesty
intimated, as it were, to London : “ I will come

among you, and rejoice with you ; as we have shared
our anxieties and sorrows, we will share the common
joys.”

Your Majesty does not much admire Queen Eliza-
beth, but the visit to London was in the Elizabethan
spirit. There was, however, this difference, that with
the pride that England felt in Ehzabeth there was but
little love. Now the nation glows with both.

I saw your Majesty three times in the streets and
in the Park ; and my overpowering feeling was, “ What
a glorious privilege to be able to make millions so
happy ! ” And I came to the conclusion that that
time, from Thursday to Saturday, was the most re-
markable that I had ever passed in London, No one
who saw London then wiU ever forget it, or will cease
to pray for the prolongation of your Majesty’s life, and
of your Majesty’s priceless and unceasing exertions
for your Empire. I am always, your Majesty’s
humble, devoted servant and subject, Hosebeey.

{Telegrami\ Sir Alfred Milner to Mr, Chamberlain.

IQth March 1900. — ^Matter most urgent.

Following Resolutions passed unanimously at

514 CAPE IRISH AND PHE QUEEN [chap. x«

public meeting of Irishmen in Cape Town handed to
me for transmission to her Majesty the Queen ;

(1) That we Irishmen in public meeting assembled proudly
recognise that our countrymen in her Majesty’s service have added
fresh laurels to the national honour, and hereby humbly thank her
Majesty for so graciously acknowledging their merit by her order
to wear the shamrock on Saint Patrick’s Day : her intention for
forming an Irish regiment of Guards, and of paying a visit to our
country where loyal and enthusiastic welcome awaits her.

(2) That this meeting of Irish Colonists records its profound
conviction that in the present war the Empire is fighting for
justice and peace, and tenders to the High Commissioner its
absolute confidence and respectful sympathy in his grave anxieties,

Promoters are very anxious that the Resolutions
should reach her Majesty on Saint Patrick’s Day, A
prompt and appreciative reply would have very good
effect.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

Windsor Castle, IQth March 1900. — Humbly
submitted. The enclosed telegram came late this
evening, and Mr. Chamberlain asks if your Majesty
will graciously reply to it early to-morrow. Sir A.
Bigge therefore humbly suggests the following :

The Queen sincerely thanks the Irishmen in Cape
Town for their loyal message unanimously agreed
upon at a public meeting and transmitted through
the High Commissioner. The sentiments which it
expressed have greatly touched her Majesty. The
Queen has always felt confident that the same spirit
of courage and allegiance which has distinguished her
Irish soldiers in face of the enemy would be shared
by their brethren m the Colony in support of the
authority of her Government.

Lord Amplhill^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.

COLONtAX Office, Itth March 1900.

Dear Sir Arthur, — ^Many thanks for sending the
Queen’s reply to the Cape Irishmen so early. It is
now on its way. Mr. Chamberlain did not wish to

* Parliamenttiry Under-Secretary, Colonial Office.

1900] VISIT TO WOOLWICH 513

alter a word of it. He said, “ It was admirable, as
usual.” Yours sincerely, Amptiiill.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Government House, Calcutta, 22 )id March
1900. — . . . It is now above all things essential that
a strong man in the prime of his life should be ap-
pointed to succeed,’- since the Viceroy would not be
doing his duty did he not confess to your Majesty that
there is grave need for reform in many branches of the
military service in India. The machine has become
clogged with tradition and routine, and calls for
urgent overhauling if we are ever to defend the
Indian frontiers with assured success. . . .

Extract from the Q^ieen‘s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 22nd March 1900. — Limched
early, and left at two with Lenchen and Thora for
Woolwich, going by train via Waterloo. The whole
line from Windsor was crowded with workmen and
people, all cheering. At Waterloo Station there was
an immense crowd, which was very enthusiastic.
We three drove straight through the [Woolwich]
Arsenal, where 20,000 workmen were assembled, who
are working day and night on munitions, and had
been given a half-holiday in honour of my visit. They
cheered so tremendously that it quite drowned the
band playing God Save the Queen. It was a drive of
two and a half miles to the Herbert Hospital, and a
most wonderful sight, the whole distance being
crowded with a dense mass of cheering and shouting
people. Numbers of schoolchildren, waving flags, were
assembled at different parts of the route. The chief
objects of interest we passed on the way were the flag
flying from the Artillery Barracks made by the ladies of
Pretoria at the time of the annexation, the little house
in which General Gordon was born, and the statue of
the Prince Imperial, just outside the Military Academy.
The cadets were all drawn up at the hospital.

‘ To the Command-in-Chief in India.

616 MR. BALFOUR ON QUEEN AND PEOPLE [chap, xvi

On arrival there I was wheeled at once into the
wards, first passing through the corridors, lined with
convalescent wounded, but it was so dark I could not
see them very well. I was wheeled up to the bed of
each man, speaking to them, and giving them flowers.
They seemed so touched, and many had tears in their
eyes. There were a great number of Irish soldiers,
chiefly from the Dublin Fusiliers, Inniskillens, and
Connaught Hanger.s; also several artillerymen who
had been in that dreadful affair at Colcnso, when they
lost so heavily. Some were very badly wounded, but
all seemed to be doing well. I then went up into the
medical ward and again presented flowers. The cases
were mostly enteric, dysentery, and rheumatism.
Some of the men had only arrived a few days before.

My visit lasted an hour and a half. Drove back
over Blackheath past the Fever Hospital, where all
the nurses were drawn up, and it was four miles to the
station, passing again through thousands of people,
cheering ceaselessly and deafeningly. One could
neither hear nor speak for the noise, and it was very
tiring, though* very moving and gratifying. At one
place the boys of the naval school, and at another the
children of the Cripples’ Home, founded by General
Gardiner, were drawn up. The decorations every-
where were quite beautiful. Got back at seven,
somewhat fatigued. Only the ladies to dinner.

Mr. Balfour io Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 22nd March 1900. — ^Mr.
Balfour with his humble duty to your Majesty begs
humbly to thank your Majesty for her gracious letter
to Mr. Balfour. In reference to your Majesty’s obser-
vation on the recent outburst of enthusiasm which
greeted your Majesty’s visit to London, he cannot for-
bear respectfully expressing his conviction that your
Majesty occupies a position in the hearts and inmost
affections of your people which has been given to none
of your Majesty’s predecessors. Recent events have
done no more than provide an occasion on which these

PRINCE AND PARIS EXHIBITION

517

1900]

deep-seated feelings may find something like adequate
opportunity for expressing themselves. . . .

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

24ith March 1900. — ^Humbly submitted. The Lord-
Lieutenant asked Sir Arthur Bigge to submit for your
Majesty’s approval that, following the precedents of
your Majesty’s previous visits to Ireland, the position
of the Lord-Lieutenant shall remain unaffected, and
that he will continue to discharge the same powers
and duties as usual. . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

20 Aelington Steeet, S.W., 25th March 1900. —
Lord Salisbury with his humble duty respectfully
submits to your Majesty that the Duke of Norfolk
has resigned the office of Postmaster- General, as he
starts this week for South Africa with the Sussex
Volunteers,

Sir Arthur Bigge to the Marquis of Salisbury.

[Copy.] Windsor Castle, 25th March 1900.

Deae Loed Salisbury, — The Queen wishes me
to let you know the result of my interview with the
Prince of Wales this afternoon.

H.R.H. declared that it was utterly impossible for
him to attend the opening of the French Exhibition ;
that he would have to go to Paris some time during
the Exhibition, but even this he did not wish to make
public, as it might after all become impossible for him
to visit France,

As to precedents ; in 1867, although a Commissioner,
he did not attend the opening ; in 1878 he was present
at the opening ceremony. In 1889 he was not a
Commissioner, and did not go to the opening. H.R.H.
does not admit that the campaign of personal insults
to the Queen is over ; meanwhile, it is now directed
against himself, and H.R.H. desires me to send you
the enclosed cutting, a translation from La Patrie\

' This submission is endorsed, “ Approved. V. R. I.”

518 QUEEN AND AUSTRAIJAN DELEGATES [chap, xvi

such scuniloiis abuse is no doubt read and believed in
by the lowest and ignorant classes, and is quite suffi-
cient to arouse indignation against the Prince per-
sonally.

At the o[)cning ceremony he would appear in the
British uniform, and it is not improbable that he
might bo in.sulted by the Paris mob ; and, as H.R.H.
says, an insidt to our uniform might lead to war. He
argues further that to go to Ihiris just now— the
opening of the Kxhihitiou is on l.'ilh April — would, in
his opinion, hi; a positive slight to the Queen, and
wnidd be regarded by I'^renchmen as a proof that he
was indifferent to the vile caricatures and lampooning
of his own mother by their Press. It would be most
impopular in this country, where many important
exhibitors have withdrawn in disgust at the treatment
which the French have allowed the Queen to suffer
at the hands of their newspapers.

The Queen says that the Prince of Wales, she
feels, is quite right in these views, and that it would
not under the circumstances be possible for him to
attend the public ceremony on 15th April, and, more-
over, there would be something anomalous in H.R.H.
going to Paris just now when H.M. would not even go
into France en route to Italy.

The Prince of Wales has been begged by friends,
acquaintances, and warned by anonymous letters not
to go to France, at all events for the present. Yours
very truly, A, Bigge.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge,
[Copy.\ Foreign Oeticp,, 27th March 1000,

My dear Sir Arthur, — ^Many thanks for your
letter. Of eourse there is no more to be said. Ever
yours truly, Salisbury,

Extract from the Qiicen^s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 27ih March 1900, — ^After
luncheon I received delegates from Australia, who had
come over about the Federation, about which there

1900] CONGRATULATIONS FROM KAISER 319

has been some arrangement come to. There were six
gentlemen, four of whom brought their wives, and one
a daughter. I received them in the Green Drawing-
room with Beatrice, Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain
presenting them.

[Copy.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria,

Behlin, 31ii Mwch 1900.

Most beloved Grandmama, — How glad am I
that I may join to the thanks for your last kind letter
the warmest congratulations for the birth of another
great-grandson ! ^ The Lord’s blessing is upon your
house, and may it for ever continue to be so ! I hope
that May and her boy will prosper, and that he may
add a new ray of sunshine in the pretty lodge to the
sunny little circle in a happy home. Since I last
wrote the operations of General Roberts have promptly
led to the result I predicted ; and the efforts of
his gallant men brought about Paardeberg, Bloem-
fontein, and the relief of Ladysmith, names for ever
memorable in the history of the British arms. Lord
Roberts has shown himself worthy of the confidence
of his Queen who chose him, and of his troops who
followed him to victory. The fact will do much to
ensure the end of the campaign, as the mutual reliance
of the general and his soldiers is based upon convic-
tions proved by such brilliant facts. . . .

By my telegram you are informed of the sudden
surprises in the political phases of the war, and I am
most thankful to Providence that I was granted such
an opportunity of saving your country from a most
dangerous situation in warding off a combination
aiming a blow at England in a moment which was
vital to her. May your Government see in my action
a renewed proof of my firm friendship, and a sign of
my determination to see that you shall have fair
play I For I am sure that. South Africa once imder
the British flag, thrift, order, life, commerce, and peace
with “ Goodwill towards all men ” will be assured.

' Prince Henry, now Duke of Gloucester, torn Slst March 1900.

520 LADIES VISITING SOUTH AERICA [chap, xvi

Mama -wrote to me that she suffered less and was
enjoying the sim and flowers ; as the weather here
is beyond all description, nasty and horrible, I begged
her to be most careful in choosing her time for
returning.

Let me, before I end, compliment you on the
gracious order you gave for the “ wearing o’ the
gi-een ” by the brave Irish troops, and the resolve to
pay Ireland a visit. When talking with Sir Prank
abemt this great news, I ventured to say that “ her
Most Gracious Majesty had the wonderful gift of
always doing the right thing at the right moment,”
May the visit prove a thorough success ! With best
love I kiss your hands, and remain, ever your most
devoted Grandson, William.

\Telegram^ Qiieen Victoria to Colonel Baden-Potoell.

WiNDsoB. Castle, 1st April 1900. — I continue
watching with confidence and admiration the patient
and resolute defence ^ which is so gallantly maintained
under your ever resourceful command.

Mr. Chamberlain to Sir Alfred Milner.

[Cypher Telegram.]

Colonial Office, 3rd April 1900. — The Queen
regrets to observe the large number of ladies now
visiting and remaining in South Africa, often without
imperative reasons, and strongly disapproves of the
hysterical spirit which seems to have influenced some
of them to go to where they are not wanted. I con-
clude their presence interferes with work of civil and
military officers, and they must largely occupy best
hotel accommodation required for wounded and
invalid officers.

Can you send telegram,* with or without concur-
rence of Eoberts and General Commanding Cape Town,
representing that number of lady visitors is now so
considerable as to encroach materially on hotel and

* Of Mafcking. Col. Baden-Fowell is now Lord Baden-Powell.

* On the lOtlr Sir .Alfred Milner sent a telegram to the effect desired
hy Mr. Chamherlain .

1900] QUEEN’S ENTRY INTO DUBLIN S21

railway accommodation, etc., and otherwise impede
business, and suggesting that some notice might be
issued here calling attention to inconvenience of this
unusual number of ladies visiting seat of war.

This I would submit to the Queen, and her Majesty
would instruct me to publish, Chambeelaik.

Extract fi'om the Queen's Journal.

VicEiiEGAL Lodge, Dublin, Uh April 1900. —
We landed at the Victoria Wharf at half-past eleven,
being received by Lord and Lady Cadogan, Arthur,
Louischen and their children, also by Lord Dufferin,
and Lord Meath. We three wore bunches of real
shamrocks, and my bonnet and parasol were em-
broidered with silver shamrocks. On entering ray
carriage, in which I sat alone, Lenchen and Beatrice
opposite me, an Address was presented from the
Chairman and Councillors of Kingstown, and I said
a few words in handing my reply. The procession,
consisting of four carriages, then started, mine coming
last. Arthur rode near my carriage all the way, and
I had a travelling escort of the King’s Dragoon
Guards. The whole route from Kingstown to Dublin
was much crowded, aU the people cheering loudly,
and the decorations were beautiful. For some dis-
tance the road was kept by bluejackets, but in many
parts of the more country roads there was scarcely
a policeman or soldier. There were many loyal
inscriptions put up, suspended across the road, the
following being two of them :

“ Blest for ever is she -who relied
On Erin’s honour and Erin’s pride,”

and

“ In her a thousand virtues closed,

As Mother, Wife and Queen.”

At Ballsbridge the travelling escort was replaced
by a Sovereign’s escort of Life Guards, and a large
number of military and other mounted officials joined
the procession.

At Leeson Bridge an archway was erected, a

S22 AT VICEREGAL LODGE [chap, xvx

facsimile of the entrance to Biggotrath Castle, and
according to the ancient custom the gates were closed
till the procession approached, when Athlone Pur-
suivant-at-Arms advanced saying, “ I demand to be
admitted to the presence of the Lord Mayor.” At
the same moment the bugler on the top of the arch
blew a blast, Athlone passed in, and the gates were
reclosed. Bowing to the Lord Mayor he said ; “ My
Lord Mayor of Dublin, I seek admission to the City
of Dublin for her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen ” ;
the fjord Mayor replying, “ On behalf of the city,
I tender to her Majesty tlie most hearty welcome to
this ancient city, and on her arrival the gate shall be
thrown open on the instant.” This was done, and
I passed in, my carriage stopping opposite the Lord
Mayor, who with the aldermen, councillors, and
officials received me and presented the old city keys,
twelve in number, and 600 years old ; the city sword
was offered by the Lord Mayor (Mr. Devereux Pde).
A loyal address Avas then read and presented to me
in a beautiful gold casket. I ansAvered, “ I thank you
for your loyal address and this hearty reception.
I am very glad to fhid myself again in Ireland.”
I handed him the AVTitten answer.

The drive lasted tAVo hours and a half. We went
all along the quays in the poorer parts of the town,
AA'here thousands had gathered together and gave me
a Avildly enthusiastic greeting. At Trinity College
the students saiAg God Save the Queen, and shouted
themselves hoarse. The cheers and often almost
screams Avere (piite deafening. E\un the Nationalists
in front of the City Hall seemed to forget their politics
and cheered and Avaved their hats. It Avas really a
AV'onderful reception I got and most gratifying.

Lord and Laily Cadogan received and welcomed
mo at the door of the Viceregal Lodge. I recognised
the outside of the building, but not the inside. I was
rolled a good AA'ay to the staircase, up which I was
carried, as there was no lift. I have very comfortable
rooms.

1900] PRINCE SHOT AT IN BRUSSELS 528

Leiichen came in with some startling new,s from
Bertie, who had been shot at as their train was leaving
Brussels. A man ^ jumped on to the step of the rail-
way carriage in which he and Alix were sitting, and
fired straight at them. Was greatly shocked and
upset. Telegraphed at once to dear Bertie and Alix.
Arthur, Louischen, and Daisy dined with us upstairs
in the small dining-room. Felt very tired.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Q^ueen Victoria.

The Castle, Dublin, 5th April 1900. — . . . Lord
Lansdowne begs leave to offer your Majesty, as one
who is closely connected with this country, his con-
gratulations on your reception yesterday. He is
proud to have witnessed it, and confident of the
excellent results which your Majesty’s visit will
produce.

He also desires to express his concern at the
attack of which his Royal Highness the Prince of
Wales has been the subject, and which has, he rejoices
to tliink, had no bad consequences. He greatly
regrets that this incident should have caused your
Majesty anxiety at the present time.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Fobeign Office, Qth April 1900. — ^Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully submits that a
Cabinet Council was held to-day.

The greater part of the sitting was occupied with
discussing the two fresh disasters, that under Colonel
Broadwood and that under General Gatacre. They
were deeply impressed with these ; especially with
the last, in view of the serious reverse whicdi General
Gatacre had experienced during the winter. They
resolved to telegraph their sense of the deep evil, in
various ways, which these successive displays of care-
lessncvss would produce ; and to urge on Lord Roberts,
without mentioning any names, that the officers who
were responsible for these mishaps ought to be
superseded. . . .

^ Sipido, an Italian.

524

CORDIAL WELCOIVIE IN DUBLIN [chap, xvi

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salishury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

VicEBEGAL Lodge, Dublin, 7th April 1900. — I
cannot refrain from expressing my regret that the
Cabinet should have decided to urge upon Lord
Roberts the superses.sion of General Gatacre and
Colonel Broadwood.

The Government selected Lord Roberts as Com-
niander-in-Chief. Having thus proved their complete
confidence in him, they surely cannot now so far
interfere as to advise him to supersede Colonel
Broadwood, when he has placed on record that, even
after that officer’s misfortune, his opinion of him was
greater than before. As to General Gatacre, it does
not appear that he was responsible for the loss of the
detachment, but if Lord Robeids considers him to
blame, no doubt he will take what steps he feels are
necessary.

Eoetracts from the Queen's Journal.

Viceregal Lodge, 7th April 1900. — ^Drove with
Lenchen and Beatrice, the ladies in a second carriage,
to the public part of the Pheenix Park, where 52,000
school-children from all parts of Ireland were
assembled with their masters and mistresses. It was
a wonderful sight, and the noise of the children cheer-
ing was quite overpowering. I drove down the line
so that they could all see me, and stopped for a moment
to receive a nosegay, presented by the twin daughters
of Lady Arnott, who, with the Lady Mayoress, was
presented by Lady Denbigh.

9th April. — In the afternoon started at four in the
hmdau with four liorses and postilions, and a travel-
ling escort of the 2nd Life Guards, commanded by
Lord Ileadfort. Lenchen and Beatrice were with me,
and sat opposite to me. I drove through all the
principal streets of Dublin, where all the decorations
were still up. The crowds were just as large as on
Wednesday, and the enthusiasm immense.

1900] EDUCATION OF DUKE OF ALBANY 525

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Berlin Schloss, Qth April 1900, — Sineerest thanks
for your kind message, approving of the arrangement I
suggested to Helen for her boy, modelled on the educa-
tion of our eldest boy ; as the scheme has so well
answered with him, it will be doubtless the same with
little Albany. He passed a good examination, and my
General d la suite, von Seckendorff, has chosen eight
well-behaved boys to form a class for him. He is a
pretty and very sweet boy, and reminded me much of
his dear father, with whose memory so many sunny
hours of my boyhood in Windsor and Osborne are
linked.

May I venture to express my hearty congratula-
tions at the success of the visit to Ireland, and of the
gracious order adding a regiment of “ Irish Guards ”
to the Guards Brigade ? This is a distinction which
the brave Irish have well merited by their dauntless
courage shown in so trying moments. Williajvi I, R.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

9th April 1900. — Lord Salisbury with his humble
duty to your Majesty respectfully acknowledges your
Majesty’s telegram of Saturday. He has also seen
your Majesty’s telegram to Lord Lansdowne of the
same date.

The telegram to Lord Roberts on which your
Majesty comments was sent by Lord Lansdowne under
the instructions of the Cabinet ; and was not even
proposed by him. He has therefore no more responsi-
bility in respect to it than was shared by all the
Ministers who were present.

In your Majesty’s telegram to Lord Lansdowne
you say, “ Lord Roberts is the only judge of what is
necessary, and must really not be interfered with by
civilians at a distance who cannot judge the exact
state of the case.”

With the deepest respect Lord Salisbury would
submit to your Majesty that, under our present

326 CABINET AND EIGHTING GENERALS [chap, xyi

constitution, the doctrine that the Cabinet have no
control over a General in the held is not practicable.
If they have no control, of course they have no
responsibility. In the case, which is, of course,
possible, that some grave evil were to result from the
policy of the General, the Cabinet could not accept the
responsibility of what had been done, or be under any
obligation to defend him in Parliament ; and in case
Parliament took an adverse view, a condition of great
einbaiTassment woukl rcsxilt.

Of course, the Cabinet should not interpose without
serious cause. In the present instance they think
there is serious cause. The successive loss of so many
bodies of men in consequence of the officers taking no
precautions against ambush amounts to a scandal.
These repeated exhibitions of negligence are most
injurious to the service, and requhe severer notice
than they have received. But if Lord Roberts does
not agree with the Cabinet,^ he will no doubt reply ;
and his reply will be very carefully considered before
the Cabinet submits any further step for the considera-
tion of your Majesty.

Qiiem Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury,
[Cypher Telegram.]

Viceregal Lodge, Dublin, 10th April 1900. —
have recei\'ed your letter, and also one from Lord
Lansdow'iie. Of course I fully recognise the Cabinet’s
responsibility in this instance. But what I regret is
that they did not wait until Lord Roberts imputed
blame to his subordinates. Instead of that they
suggested that such was the case, and even mentioned
his .superseding the offenders. It would be wiser in
future not to be in such a hurry, but wait for full
particulars.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, lOih April 1900. — ^Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully

* Lord Rulierts relieved General Gatacre of liL oomm nd

1900] QUEEN AND NAVAL BRIGADE 527

thanks your Majesty for your gracious letter ; and for
the most affectionate and satisfactory letter from the
German Emperor. There lingers in Lord Salisbury’s
mind a doubt, whether a proposal for a combination
against England was ever really made by France and
Russia to Germany ^ ; but still, it is very satisfactory
to receive from the German Emperor such earnest
expressions of his goodwill.

Lord Salisbury did not receive your Majesty’s
letter till some hours after he had sent an answer to
your telegrams in regard to the relations of the
Cabinet to the Generals on active service, a subject of
extreme difficulty. He will not weary your Majesty
by repeating the considerations he then laid before
you upon that subject.

Queen Victoria to Captain Hedworth Lambton, R.N.
[Draft] [Telegrcm.]

Viceregal Lodge, Dublin, llth April 1900. —
I sincerely welcome you all on your return home, and
heartily congratulate you on the gallant and valued
services which you have rendered in South Africa.® I
hope to see you aU shortly after my return to England.

[Telegram.] Captain Lamhton, R.N., to Queen Victoria.

PoRTSEA, llth April 1900. — ^Humble duty. Your
Majesty’s most gracious telegram received by officers
and men H.M.S. Powerful with greatest enthusiasm
and gratitude. Hedworth Lambton.

Extract from the Queerds Journal.

Viceregal Lodge, Dublin, lUh April 1900. —
After luncheon drove with [Beatrice] and Lenchen in
the large landau and four horses, with a travelling
escort, the ladies following, to Kilmainham Hospital,
where Arthur received me, and all the old pensioners

* Eor a full discussion of what passed between Germany, France,
and Russia in the winter of 1899-1900 with reference to intervention
in the Boer War, see Lee’s King Edward VII, vol. i, ch. 39.

* Their heavy naval guns materially assisted in the defence of
Ladysmith.

528 QUEEN AT DUBLIN CASTLE [chap, xvi

were drawn up, and the oldest amongst them, aged
eighty-one, who had fought in the first Afghan war in
1830, gave me a nosegay. All the old men cheered.
We drove round the hospital and out at another gate,
going on to the Castle. There were again great crowds
as we passed through the town. Lord and Lady
Cadogan were at the door, and I was carried upstairs,
and went through all the really very fine reception
rooms, and St. Patrick’s Hall, which was lit up, also the
Tiironc room, in which I had held my Drawing-room in
1849, We had tea in the drawing-room where they
generally sit. Gottlieb’s band played two pieces, and
then Lady Limerick played beautifully on the piano.
Lord Cadogan’s grandchildren came in at the end of
tea, and afterwards the ladies and gentlemen staying
at the Castle came by, including the Archbishop. We
drove back the same way, and the people were very
enthusiastic, as they always are here.

Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Armv He.adquartees, Bloehefontein, ISih April 1900.

IVIadam, — . . . I did not think when I wrote to
your Majesty on the 15th March that my next letter
would also he dated from Bloemfontein, hut the delay
here has been unavoidable. We are dependent upon
a base 750 miles away for the main portion of our
supplies, and, as the railway is only a single line, the
transport of goods is necessarily slow, a great trial to
one’s patience, when everyone wants everything at the
same time. The Cavalry and Horse Artillery have
had to be almost remounted, their horses were so done
up by hard work and getting very little food. The
transport animals were in much the same plight.
Then the soldiers required a fresh kit, for many of
them were in rags. Ammunition and stores of all
kintls had to be replaced, and large supplies of food
had to be collected. A great deal has been done dur-
ing the past month, and in another ten days the army
will, I trust, be ready to take the field again.

Meanwhile, the enemy have not failed to take

1900] LORD ROBERTS AT BLOEMFONTEIN 529

advantage of our enforced idleness. They have
spread over the country in small parties, threatening
our long line of communication, frightening, in some
instances indeed ill-treating, the burghers who had
laid down their arms and returned to their farms,
under the condition of my Proclamation. Not being
able to give these people proper protection has caused
me considerable concern, and I am glad to think that
this state of affairs will not last much longer.

In Bloemfontein itself there has been no trouble.
, . , Soldiers walk about in the most orderly manner,
and not a siagle instance of their being rude or rough
has been brought to my notice. . , .

The climate now is quite perfect, and I hope that
Lady Roberts and my daughter will be able to come
here ere long. They will &id it an agreeable change
after Cape Town. I understand that your Majesty
does not approve of ladies coming out to South Africa
from mere curiosity. I am forbidding any to enter
the Orange Free State, except those who may have a
son or husband in hospital, or whose husband is likely
to be quartered in Bloemfontein for some time.

We were aU delighted to hear of the splendid
reception your Majesty met with in Dublin. I know
how very pleased the Irish people are at your Majesty
honouring their country with a visit. Their hearts
were won by Irish soldiers being permitted to wear
shamrock on St. Patrick’s Day, and I am sure that
the formation of an Irish regiment of the Guards wiU
be thoroughly appreciated. . . .

With my most respectful duty, I am, Madam, your
Majesty’s most obedient humble servant, Roberts,

Major F. A. B. Daly to the Prindyal Medical Officers

[Copy.] Fkeue, 28/7i February 1900.

Sib, — I have the honour to transmit herewith one
tin of the chocolate presented by her Most Gracious

' In submitting this letter to the Queen on 15th April, Sir Arthur
Bigge wrote; “Your Majesty would doubtless wish another box to
be sent to Private Humphrey.”

580 QUEEN’S CHOCOLATE SAVES LIFE [ciiaf. xvi

Majesty the Queen to the troops serving in South
Africa.

The tin. of chocolate in question was carried Tby
No. 4497 Private James Humphrey, 2nd Battalion
Royal Iiancastcr Regiment, in his haversack, at the
frontal attack on Groblcrs Kloof on the 22nd instant,
and was struck by a Boer bullet ; the man was lying
down at the time firing, and the tin was situated over
the region of the spleen; had the bullet not been
stopped by the chocolate, it would undoubtedly have
passed through ttiis structure into the abdomen, and
have caused a fatal wound — ^thus saving the man’s
life at the time ; the man was afterwards wounded
in the foot, and is at present under treatment in No. 1
Stationary Hospital, Prere.

Private Humplirey has desired me to forward the
tin, together nith the bullet by which it was struck,
for presentation to her Majesty, and I shall be glad
if you will kindly see your way to have the man’s
request granted through the proper channel.

I may add that the Sergeant of Rivate Humphrey’s
section (Sergeant Cheetham) is also in this hospital,
and verifies the man’s statement, as he was quite
close to him when he was struck. I have the honour
to be, sir, your obedient servant, F, A. B. Daly,
Major R.A.M. Corps,

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Viceregal Lodge, April 1900. — In the

afternoon drove with Lenchen and Beatrice to
Clondalkin to see one of the curious old Irish towers.
The little town had been so prettily decorated.
Wherever I go the people come out and cheer, and
call out, “ God bless you.”

The Maiciuis of Salishury to Queen Victona.

Foreign Office, imh April 1900. — Lord
Salisbury with his humble duty respectfully submits
to your Majesty a note he has just received from
Sir Prank Lascelles. He ventures with all respect

1900] QUEEN’S ACTIVITIES IN IRELAND 631

to commend it to your Majesty’s gracious considera-
tion. In his judgment it would be of considerable
public importance if your Majesty would permit the
Duke of York to go on the 6th of May. As the
Emperor is about to be godfather to his child, it
win be more marked if no member of the Royal
Family of England is present. Their absence will
wound the German Emperor, and will be a dis-
appointment to the Austrian Emperor. But it will
be no pimishmcnt whatever to the gutter journalists
who have behaved so atrociously, and against whom
your Majesty is justly incensed. They will only be
glad of an incident which may tend to widen the
gap between tlie public feeling in the two countries.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

VicEEEGAL Lodge, V7th April 1900. — ^After
breakfast saw a quantity of lace and embroideries
done by the very poorest people and quite beautiful.
Have altogether made many purchases from the
various local industries. After luncheon drove with
Lenchen and Ismay S. in a landau with postilions
and a travelling escort of the 2nd Life Guards, the
equerries riding. We drove into Dublin to the
Adelaide Hospital, situated in the very poorest part
of the town. The street in which it stands is a very
narrow one, and the people literally thronged round the
carriage, giving me the most enthusiastic welcome, as
indeed Ireceive everywhere. LordDenbigh^ awaitedme
at the hospital, and presented the Committee of Man-
agement, as well as all the doctors and the Lady Super-
intendent, Miss Fitzpatrick, who gave me a bouquet.

On leaving the hospital we drove by Wiiite
Friars Place, Steplien’s Green, and Leeson Bridge.

’ Lord-in-waiting, 1897-1901. It was not his turn for duty, but,
as he states in an interesting article about the Irish visit in the Universe
of 4th December 1931 : “■ I received her Majesty’s command, that,
being a Catholic, she wished me to go to Ireland in attendance.” He
' adds that the Queen was most anxious to do all she could to draw
classes in Ireland together, and soften the religious bitterness between
Catholics and Protestants.

ni -36

582 QUEEN AT A CONVENT [ciiaf. xvi

We passed tlirough the picturesque village of Douny-
brook to Sajidford Road, where the escort left us,
and the Mounted Constabulary replaced them. The
road was very pretty, through lanes, everywhere
crowds of people, cheering wildly and waving flags.
On our arrival at Mount Anville, the Convent of the
Sacred Heart, we passed up an avenue decorated with
Venetian masts and garlands. Were received by the
llev. Mother Stuart, Superior Vicar of the Houses,
the Rev. Mother Roche, local Superior, the Bishop
of Canea (Hr. Honnolly), and Canon Matthews, all of
whom were presented by Lord Denbigh, The pupils
of the Convent and some from the other sister houses,
numbering between four or five hundred, were drawn
up, as well as about fifty of the nrms. The children
were all dressed in white, the boarders carrying arum
lilies in their hands, whilst the others carried daffodils,
and they all sang the National Anthem. Two of the
girls gave me a beautiful nosegay, and the Mother
Superior kissed my hand. There were great outbursts
of cheering as I drove away.

iWi A'pril , — Went out with Lenchen and Ismay
S[outhampton], and saw all my Jubilee Nurses, who had
come from different parts of Ireland on the terrace iu
front of the house. I had previously given to Lady
Cadogan, who had presented the nurses to me, the
3rd class of the Victoria and Albert order. In the
afternoon drove with Beatrice and Ismay S. to Ciontarf,
along by the seashore, A great many people along
the road cheering and waving flags. We then drove
through St. Anne’s, Lord Ardilaun’s place, which is
beautiful, and has a very pretty approach to it.
Stopped a moment at the house, where were Lord and
Lady Ardilaim. The latter gave me a large nosegay
of primroses, to-day being “ Primrose Day.” Re-
turned by the Glasnevdn Road. It was a very
pleasant interesting drive, Arthur, Louischen,
Cardinal Logue, Lord and Lady Lucan, Sir Gerald
and Lady Dease, Ismay S., Lord Denbigh, and Sir
A. Bigge dined. The Cardinal, who is very tm-

1900] SPION KOP DESPATCHES 533

assuming and pleasing in manner, though hardly in
looks, is also Archbishop. He was dressed in his
robes. He seemed to be on very good terms with
our Archbishop of Aumagh, and spoke most kindly
of him and Miss Alexander. Gottlieb’s band played
after dinner, and the Life Guards band during dinner.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
{Cypher Telegram.]

ViCEREOAi, Lodge, 18th April 1900. — I am much
surprised at the Spion Kop despatches ^ being pub-
lished, especially as I imderstood from the Commander-
in-Chief that this would not be done, and Lord
Salisbury did not wish it. What caused this change ?
The publication will only do harm, and lower the
officers named in the estimation of their commands.®

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury,

Viceregal Lodge, 19th April 1900. Primrose
Day. — The Queen writes to Lord Salisbury, first of

1 Lord Roberts’s confidential despatch to Lord Lansdowne, for-
warding Sir Redvers BuUer’s despatch on the Spion Kop affair, con-
tained serious reflections on the conduct of Six Redvers himself. Sir
Charles Warren, and Lieut.-Colonel Thorneycroft. The summing up at
the close ran as follows : “ The attempt to relieve Ladysmith, described
in these despatches, was well devised, and I agree -with Sir Redvers
Duller in thinking that it ought to have succeeded. That it failed may,
in some measure, he due to the difficulties of the ground and the com-
manding positions held hy the enemy, probably also to errors of judg-
ment and want of administrative capacity on the part of Sir Charles
Warren. But whatever faults Sir Charles Warren may have committed,
the failure must also be ascribed to the disinclination of the officer in
supreme command to assert his authority, and see that what he thought
best was done, and also to the unwarrantable and needless assumption
of responsibility by a subordinate officer.”

^ Lord Lansdowne’s reply, dated 10th April, has been printed in
Lord Newton’s Lord Lansdovme, p. 188 ; and is also covered by his
memorandum of 2‘lth April, printed in full below, i)p. E41-3. We
therefore do not reproduce it here, except the last two sentences, which
are not quoted by Lord Newton : “ Since the above lines were written,
Lord Roberts has reported that Sir Charles Warren has, at Sir Redvers
Buller’s request, been deprived of his command of a division in Natal,
and transferred to other employment in Cape Colony. Lord Roberts’s
censure of Sir Redvers Duller is so temperate and judicial that it should
not in Lord Lansdowne’s opinion have the effect of lowering Sir Redvers
in the estimation of his command.”

534 QUEEN=S CONCERN ON PUBLICATION [chai*. xvi

all to say how wonderfully kind, loyal, and enthusiastic
the Irish people show themselves wherever she goes,
and such real affection that it amply repays me for
the considerable but unavoidable fatigue I have to go
through. They are most kind and loyal to the Prin-
cesses and to the Duke and Duchess of Connaught,

The Queen must now express her utter astonish-
ment and, she must say, great concern at the publica-
tion now of the very secret and confidential despatch
from Lord Roberts which Lord Salisbury said and
promised should not be published, and Lord Wolseley
promised should not on any account be made public.
What has caused this lamentable want of direction
and judgment ? It is most unpleasant and painful
for Lord Roberts, who will be placed in a most un-
pleasant position, and cruel and ungenerous towards
Sir R. BuUer, who did relieve Ladysmith. This
publication will cause far more heart-burnings and
tend to lower the Generals in the eyes of the men under
them. The Queen’s feelings are shared by everyone,
including Cabinet JMinisters here. Could Lord Lans-
downe have been guilty of sueh an extraordinary
proceeding ? It has almost made the Queen think
they were stolen.^

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Viceregal Lodge, 20th April 1900. — ^Very warm.
Went with Beatrice and Ismay S,, Lord Denbigh, and
Sir A. Biggc to the Zoological Gardens, going in by
pony chair. It is close by, just across the road,
beautifully managed and most interesting. The lions
are the great feature, and they have some splendid
specimens. In the afternoon drove with Lenchen and
Beatrice in a landau and four, but without an escort,
to the Meath Hospital, where Lord Denbigh met us
and presented the authorities, doctors, and matron,
the latter giving me a lovely nosegay. There were

* Lord Salisbury telegraphed : “ I anti more puzzled than I can say.
I quite agree in deprecating what has been done. I have written to
ask for explanations.”

1900J AT CONVENT OF LORETTO 533

great crowds and much enthusiasm. We then drove
over Portobello Bridge through the village of Rath-
mines, which was gaily decorated, to Rathfarnham,
where we drove through the grounds to the Convent
of Loretto. Here we were greeted with much cheering
by a vast crowd. In front of the Convent were
grouped 200 nuns and 600 pupils, these latter all
dressed in white, which made a charming contrast
to the nuns in their dark garb. The National
Anthem was played by the orchestra of the Convent.
There were six harps, one being played by a nun.
I received a beautiful bouquet from one of the pupils,
also an embroidered harp, and an illuminated card.
Lord Denbigh presented the Mother Superior, Father
Kennedy, Monsignor Fitzpatrick, Monsignor Plunkett,
and Canon Flicker of Rathmines. All seemed much
pleased, and it was an extremely pretty sight. We left
amidst much cheering, and returned the same way.
Lord and Lady Cadogan, the Archbishop of Dublin
and Mrs. Peacock, Lord and Lady Rosse, Lord and
Lady Lurgan, the Duke of Montrose, Ismay S., Lord
Denbigh, and Colonel Carrington dined. After dinner
Arthur and Louischen came, and I had an evening
party. Gottlieb’s band played.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Berlin, 20th April 1900. — I am much touched by
your kind telegram, was so anxious to express what we
all felt to Uncle, ^ and am very proud that we were the
first country that could honour him and congratulate
him. Mama safely arrived at home. Most grateful for
sending Georgy here for the 6th of May, William I, R.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury,
[Cypher Telegram,]

20th April 1900. — ^Thanks for your telegram. I
have heard from Lord Lansdowne, and suppose his

' The Prince of Wales, who had just escaped assassination at
Brussels by an anarchist.

536 CABINET AND THE DESPATCHES [chap, xvi

explanation must be accepted. I none the less
deplore the publication of the despatches, and this
feeling is evidently shared by general public opinion.

I must protest most strongly against any such im-
portant steps having been taken without my know-
ledge and approval, and as I understand without the
consent of the Cabinet ; and I beg you will say so.
V. R. V

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

21st April 1900. — ^Humble duty. I have received
from Lord Lansdowne a letter containing his explana-
tion of the unfortunate publication of Lord Roberts’s
despatch : it is not at all satisfactory. The only
thing to be said is that he must have entirely mis-
understood the decision of the Cabinet.

I have communicated to him the instructions
contained in your Majesty’s telegram of yesterday.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

ViCEEEGAL Lodge, 21st April 1900. — ^Very fine
and warm. Sat in the garden. Later we were all
photographed by Lafayette. In the afternoon at
four drove in the large carriage and four, Lenchen and
Beatrice sitting backwards, to the Review Ground
called the Fifteen Acres. Had a Sovereign’s escort of
Life Guards. We drove through enormous crowds,
who cheered tremendously. I received the royal
salute on arrival, then drove slowly down the hne,
Arthur riding next to my carriage. On returning to
the saluting point the march past took place. The
Naval Brigade Field Batteries and Bluejackets with
their maxim guns came first, then the Marines, 2,100
from the Channel Fleet, Sir Harry Rawson standing

1 Writing on SYth April, detailing the proceedings of the Cabinet
that day, Lord Salisbury added: ““Your Majesty’s telegram with
respect to the necessity of submitting previously to your approval steps
so important as the publication of the Spion Kop despatches was duly
rpad. to +hp C' hiopt.”

1900] REVIEW OF TROOPS IN DUBLIN 587

by my carriage as they passed. Next came all the
troops, the little boys of the Hibernian School bringing
up the rear. At the end of the review, Arthur called
for three cheers for me. We then drove home amidst
such tremendous cheering as I have never heard.
Only the ladies to dinner; afterwards Madame Ella
Russell sang to us quite charmingly.

The Duke of Devonshire io Sir Arthur Bigge,
Lismoee Castle, 22nd April l&OO.

My dear Bigge, — I received your cypher telegram
last night.

I was surprised to see the despatches in the
newspapers, but not having been present at the last
Cabinet, which was held after I came to Ireland, I
could not tell how the decision as to publication was
arrived at.

Her Majesty will have seen from the War Office
telegram of 25th March, and telegrams to and from
Lord Roberts, that the publication was not hastily
or inadvertently decided on, but that Lord Roberts
was very fully consulted, and the embarrassing con-
sequences of publication pointed out to him, I have
not seen any further telegrams on the subject since
those of 31st March, but up to that time Lord Roberts
does not seem to have had any strong opinion one
way or another as to the form in which the despatches
should be published, if at all.

As I have said, I was not present at the last Cabinet,
and cannot tell what took place then, but I am sur-
prised that Lord Salisbury should think that the
S. of S. for War has misunderstood the decision. Her
Majesty will no doubt have observed that not only
certain documents have been omitted altogether, but
those which have been published have been consider-
ably edited. There are no doubt many passages
retained which are extremely inconvenient, but whether
these could have been omitted without injustice to
some of the officers concerned I am unable to say.
I remain, yours sincerely, Devonshire,

d3S THE “ BLENDER ABOUT DESPATCHES [chap, xvi

Qiieen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Viceregal Lodge, Dublin, 22nd April 1900. —

I must insist upon knowing what is to be done when
Parliament reassembles about the deplorable blunder
of publishing the despatches, as the question is certain
to be brought forward.

Mr. Long is reported to have publicly assumed, for
the Government, responsibility for this act. But you
have explained to me that such is not the case. You
ought to repudiate Lord Lansdowne’s action, which is
unprecedented, and which, if followed in the future,
will ruin the discipline of the Army.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cyjiher Telegram.]

23rd April 1900. — Mr. Long’s speech was not very
dexterous ; but he does not seem to have laid down
any unsound doctrine. It is a fundamental rule that
no Cabinet Minister can speak publicly in opposition
or censure any of his colleagues. Mr. Long did his
best to defend a step which evidently puzzled him.
Your Majesty says, “You ought to repudiate Lord
Lansdowne’s action, which is unprecedented.” If I did
so publicly, he would certainly resign. Probably the
other three Liberal Unionists would take the same course
and perhaps some others ; and a change of Govern-
ment or a dissolution must necessarily follow. It would
be a great responsibility to bring about these events in
the very crisis of war. Lord Lansdowne denies that
he consciously disobeyed the Cabinet ; but he did not
understand them to have negatived publication.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.

23r<i April 1900. — I have received your telegram,
and understand the difficulty of repudiating Lord
Lansdowne’s blunder. But I must ask what you now
intend to do, as the feeling, especially in the Army, is so
strong against this deplorable step.

The country must have some assurance that such

1900] THE QUEEN “AGHAST” 589

a thing 'will not happen again, and I must insist that
matters of so great importance shall not he decided
"without reference to me, and I beg you to make this
clear to Lord Lansdowne.

[Copy.] Sir Arthur Bigge to Viscount Wolselcy.

ViCFjiEGAi. Lodge, Duhein, 22nd April 1900.

My dear Lord Wolseley, — The Queen desires
me to write to you respecting the publication of the
Spion Kop despatches. Her Majesty was perfectly
aghast when these appeared in the Press ; more es-
pecially as she understood from you that they were
not to be made public.

Her Majesty, knowing your love for the Army,
your pride in its tradition, your jealousy of its honour,
cannot help being surprised that you should have
consented to the publication, at the present time, of
reflections upon the conduct and capacity of Generals
who were actually in exercise of the high commands
for which you had respectively selected them.

The Queen quite realises that these Generals have,
like most others, made mistakes ; her Majesty further
fully understands the terrible responsibility which
they accept of the lives of those whom they lead.
Her Majesty, therefore, could have appreciated the
necessity for pointing out the blunders committed,
and even for private reproval of those at fault.

But, while the war is actually going on, to announce
in every newspaper these strictures is to officially
brand as incompetent those whom the men have, like
all good soldiers, because they are their Generals,
hitherto believed in and followed.

The Queen is not so much concerned for the
Generals as for the whole discipline and esprit de corps
of the Ai'ray, which must suffer dangerously by this
unprecedented exposure to subordinates of the faults
of their superiors.

The Queen asks herself, “ Wlro is benefited by this ? ’ ’
Not the soldiers, whose confidence in their leaders is
shaken ; not the public, whose trust in the Generals

540 PRINCE AGREES WITH QUEEN [[chap, xvi

and in those who selected them is impaired ; not the
Generals and superior officers of the Army, who must for
the future be prepared for their mistakes to be made the
subjects of public censure. So you see, her Majesty
feels justified in deploring this unfortunate step,
which was decided upon without her knowledge or
approval, and the Queen appeals to her Commander-
in-Chief for some explanation as to the military
grounds upon which this decision was based. Yours,
&c., &c., Authub Bigge.i

Sir Francis Knollys to Sir Arthur Bigge.

MabiiBOiiough House, Pall Mall, S.W., 24t/i April 1900.

My dear Bigge, — I have submitted to the Prince
of Wales the correspondence respecting the publica-
tion of Lord Roberts’s despatch. He was greatly
interested in it, and desires me to say he is very glad
to find that the Queen took the matter up so warmly ;
and that he entirely agrees with every word that her
Majesty has telegraphed and written on the subject.
He is curious to know what Lord Wolseley’s answer
will be to your letter to him. What the Queen thinks
of the publication is only what everybody, without an
exception, of all shades of opinion says. Yours
sincerely, Francis Knollys.

Viscount Wolseley to Sir Arthur Bigge.

24//i April 1900.

My dear Bigge, — ^The idea conveyed in your
letter that the Queen should think I had been in any
way, or in any degree, disingenuous about the publi-
cation of the Natal despatches, has grieved me
seriously.

The despatches about which I spoke to the Queen
were different, I might say very different, from those
published. They contained reports from both Buller
and Warren. That from the former was to my mind
a very unfortunate one, and had it been published

* On the same day Sir Arthur Bigge wrote to Sir Francis Knollys,
enclosing all the corre-spondence on the subject for the Prince of Wales’s

it\forflr''tTnii.

541

1900] LORD WOLSELEY FOR PUBLICATION

would in my opinion have damned Buller more than
what Lord Roberts said about him. ... I was so
opposed to the publication of the original despatches
that I asked Lord Lansdowne to telegraph to Roberts
to leave out one paragraph and tone down another in
his despatch. He consented to leave out the former,
but would not act upon Lord Lansdowne’s suggestion
regarding the other. I regret this much for Sir Red-
vers’ sake. . . . Sir Redvers was asked to allow us to
keep back his report, and his answer was he would
place himself entirely as regards it in my hands. So
I kept it. Of course the outside world know nothing
of either Warren’s or Buller’s despatches that have
been kept back, or that any have been kept back or
altered by consent of Lord Roberts and others. In
my opinion we were bound to publish some despatches
about the relief of Ladysmith. It was a very great
operation carried out by about 30,000 men under
Buller, and it would be impossible not to give the public
the benefit of reading the reports of at least the officer
in supreme command, I mean. Lord Roberts. . . .
General Warren ... is fuU of pluck ; is clever, but
he does not understand war. I rejoice that he has
accepted a civil position, so as a soldier we shall never
hear of him again. The man I am sorry for is Buller,
for he has always been a fine fighting fellow. . . .

In conclusion, I can only say, that I am very very
sorry Lord Roberts thought fit to say what he did
about Sir R. Buller ; . . . but I do not think the
Government could have avoided publishing his de-
spatches, much as I disliked the necessity for doing so.
Believe me to be, very sincerely yours, Wolseley.

Memorandum hy the Marquis of Lansdowne.
Very secret.

2Uh April 1900. — I learn with great regret from
the Prime Minister that in his belief the Cabinet had
arrived at a “ clear decision ” not to publish the
Spion Kop despatches.

Our decisions are not always very distinctly

542 LORD LANSDOWNE’S EXJt'LAMATiON [chap, xvi

intimated to the Ministers who have to carry them
out, hut in this case I can recall nothing which, in
my understanding, bore any resemblance to such a
decision as was, I am now told, arrived at. I remem-
ber mentioning to the Cabinet the difficulty which I
found in deciding what papers should and what should
not be published. I said that some of the documents,
notably Sir E., Buller’s Memorandum of the 30th
January 1900, which he described as “ not necessarily
for publication,” and which has been omitted, ought,
in my opinion, certainly not to be published.

I told the Cabinet that I had consulted Lord
Roberts as to the selection which I proposed, that I
had suggested to him as an alternative that he and
Sir R. Buller should write fresh despatches, containing
no doubtful matter, expressly for publication, but
that Sir R. Buller had expressed himself as decidedly
averse to rewriting his despatches for publication.
My observation on this was that I would on no account
place Sir Redvers in a position to say that he had been
ordered to take back his account of the operations,
and to substitute one more to the hking of the War
Office. From this view I did not understand that
there was any dissent, but I assumed throughout, and
I thought I made this clear, that we must publish
something.

We have, in fact, published despatches giving an
account of all the more important engagements, and
I do not see how we could have withheld those which
had reference to the series of operations carried out on
the Tugela by Sir R. Buller during the latter portion
of January. We could not have said that no such
despatches existed. If, admitting their existence, we
had refused to present any part of them, the result
would, I cannot help thinking, have been more
damaging to the Generals concerned than the course
which has actually been adopted.

The fact that there had been blundering at Spion
Kop was an open secret. The letters of newspaper
correspondents, and still more the letters sent home

1900] THE STORY OF THE FACTS 648

by individual officers, were eloquent as to this. So
far as Sir R. Buller is concerned, it seems to me that
the moderate criticism of Lord Roberts, accompanied
as it is by a distinct commendation of Sir Redvers’
plan, ought not to diminish his authority or leave his
reputation lower by a degree than it stood the day
before publication took place.

Sir Charles Warren’s ease is different : he has
shown himself incompetent, he has been deprived of
his command, and it does not seem to me at all a bad
thing for the Army that he should be publicly censured
by his superiors.

I append copies of the telegrams which passed
between Lord Roberts and myself. His consent is a
proof that, in his opinion, the publication of the
selected documents is not inconsistent with the
interests of the Army.

I may add that Lord Wolseley was freely con-
sulted as to the selection, and that, although he would
no doubt have preferred (as I would) to publish nothing
at all, had that course been open to us, he regarded
publication as inevitable under the circumstances
which confronted us.

In conclusion, I call attention to the language of
the telegram to Lord Roberts drafted by the Cabinet
on the 30th March. It runs as follows :

Your despatch of 13th February about Spion Kop puts us in
a difficulty. Buller has under him about 50,000 men. He and
his second in command have apparently quarrelled. We gather
that, in your opinion, neither one nor the other have shown com-
petence in recent military operations. It does not seem easy to
justify keeping them in their present positions if they are to be
entrusted with difficult operations in the future, or leaving all
their troops with them if they are not. Please refer to my tele-
gram of 9th February.

The words in italics certainly seemed to me to
point to the approaching publication of the despatches.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

On Board the “ Victoria and Albert,” 26 th
April 1900. — ^Directly after breakfast gave some

544

FAREWELL TO IRELAND [chap, xvi

souvenirs to all my people. Went down to the smaller
drawing-room at twelve, and there gave the Victorian
medals which belong to the Order to twenty-six of
the Royal Irish Constabulary (sergeants and men)
and Dublin police, who had ridden with my carriage.

I handed the medals to each, Arthur handing them to
me. They all seemed very pleased.

I left the Viceregal Lodge with regret, having
spent a very pleasant time there, though a somewhat
tiring one. Leiiehen and Beatrice drov^e with me,
Arthur riding beside the carriage, and I had a Sover-
eign’s escort of the Life Guards. Louischen and
young Arthur met us at North Wall station. There
were a great many people out. The line goes right
round the town, and stops just at the landing-stage,
where we got out. Lord and Lady Cadogan met us
there, as well as some other officials. Arthur and
Louischen and young Arthur followed us on board the
F. and A., and wished us good-bye, also the Cadogans,
who do everything admirably, and have been most
civil and kind. Had our luncheon in the deck saloon,
and left at two, the Channel Fleet escorting us, but I
unfortunately did not see much of it, as feehng very
tired, I soon went below to rest. We had a perfectly
smooth crossing, without the slightest motion, and I
slept the greater part of the time. Came up on deck
for tea. The Fleet left us just outside Holyhea'd.

I felt quite sorry that all was over, and that this
eventful visit, which created so much interest and
excitement, had, hke everything in this world, come
to an end, though I own I am very tired and long for
rest and quiet. I can never forget the really wild
enthusiasm and affectionate loyalty displayed by aU
in Ireland, and shall ever retain a most grateful
remembrance of this warm-hearted sympathetic
people. Even when I used to go round the grounds in
my pony chair and the people outside caught sight of
me they would at once cheer and sing God Save the
Queen.

Windsor Castle, doth April — Saw Sir George

1900] SIR G. WHITE AT WINDSOR 54>5

White before dinner, whom it seemed quite like a
dream to see, as it is barely two months since Lady-
smith was relieved. He looks wonderfully well,
though very thin, and is so pleasant and interesting to
talk to, so wonderfully modest. He praised immensely
the conduct of the troops, and said that my messages,
coming just at a time “ when he was very miserable ”
after the loss of the two regiments, had cheered and
helped him very much. Lenchen, Christian, Thora,
Ismay S., Sir G. and Lady White, Lord Kintore,
Colonel Legge, and Fritz Ponsonby dined. I drank
Sir George’s health, and had some more conversation
with him after dinner. He told me that the atmo-
sphere was so clear out in South Africa, that they had
been able to watch from Ladysmith what was going
on. They had seen the failure of Spion Kop, and also
had watched and seen the vanguard of Lord Dun-
donald’s force coming over the hill, at first singly, and
they had not been sure whether they were foe or friend.

Sir George is a charming person and most agree-
able. He had a very warm reception here, at Windsor.

2nd May . — A most beautiful day. Georgie arrived
soon after breakfast. I saw the officers and men of
the Powerful, whom I was to inspect, march up the
hill and into the Quadrangle, preceded by the band
of the Grenadiers. At half-past twelve I got into
the carriage with Lenchen and Beatrice, Victoria
B[attenberg], Thora, the Duchess of Buccleuch, and
Ismay S . following in a second. Georgie, Louis B [atten-
berg], Sir Michael Seymour, and Sir G. White stood
near my carriage. Captain Hedworth Lambton was
presented to me by Sir M. Seymour, and handed me
the state, after which I shook hands with him.

Then drove down the line and the brigade marched
past. They had their guns with them, which were
painted khaki colour, and are the same they had at
Ladysmith, The men looked very well, having much
recovered on the voyage home. The Marines had
taken part in the battle of Graspan, and only five of
them b"fl not been wounded. At the conclii'-ion '•'he

646 QUEEN AND NAVAL BRIGADE [chap, xvi

men formed up and cheered, after which they ad-
vanced close to the carriage, and Captain Lambton
presented the officers, including several midshipmen,
amongst whom was Lord George Hamilton’s son, who
had been very ill. I addressed the following words to
the officers and men : “ I wish you all heartily
welcome on your return home after the great trials you
have so nobly borne, and I thank you warmly for the
great services you have rendered to your Queen and
the Empire.”

I saw them march off to the Riding School, where
the men had their dinner. The Mayor of Kimberley
was there and was presented. Took a turn in the
carriage, and came back to the stables, where I looked
in at the men having their dinner. They again gave
three hearty cheers.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria,

Yiceeeoal Lodge, Simla, 2nd May 1900. — , , .
Now the Viceroy comes to the concluding suggestions
in your Majesty’s letter, concerning the employment
of the sons of Indian Princes and Nobles in the Com-
missioned ranks of the Army. The Viceroy has always
looked forward to some such change as one of the most
ardently desired measures of his Viceroyalty. He
was aware of the strong feelings entertained by your
Majesty on the subject, and which he may he pardoned
for saying illustrate that instinct for the right thing
of which your Majesty has given so many examples.
The Viceroy was in correspondence with Sir W.
Lockhart about it while he still lived, and trusted
greatly to his co-operation in working out a scheme.
The present juncture, when the Empire has shown
such splendid loyalty, is a very suitable one for fram-
ing and announcing some such plan ; and the Viceroy
hopes before lon^ to get matters into shape that will
admit of their being reported to your Majesty. . . .

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Berlin Schloss, 8rd May 1900. — ^The reports
coming from India have disclosed such a fearful

547

1900] KING AND QUEEN OF SWEDEN

distress on account of the famine that they have
evoked a feeling of sincere pity here.

A Committee has been formed with my approval,
and has been able to realise a sum of over half a million
in a very short time. This sum is being sent to Cal-
cutta to be placed at the disposal of the Viceroy. I
am fulfilhng a happy duty in accouncing this fact to
the Empress of India. . . , William I. R.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, Mh May 1900. — Fine though
windy. Went out with Beatrice. The King and
Queen of Sweden came to luncheon from Roehampton,
where they are staying, also Christian and Thora.
The King and Queen are most kind and friendly, and
very sympathetic about the war. They left again
soon after three, having presented their numerous
suite. Drove with Ismay S. and Mary H. Dictated
to Beatrice on coming home. Prince Kotohito of
Japan, who is in the succession, but not nearly related
to the Emperor, was presented by Louis B. just before
dinner, Lenchen and Beatrice being with me. Besides
us five there dined Ismay S., Lord and Lady Pembroke,
Mary H[ughes], Doris V[ivian],’- Lord Kintore, the
Japanese Prince’s two gentlemen, Sir T. Sanderson and
Mr. R. Synge (of the F.O.). The Prince, who is very
pleasant and intelligent, and speaks quite good French,
sat on my right. The news from South Africa con-
tinues satisfactory.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, Qth May 1900. — I saw Professor
Pagenstecher to-day, who examined my eyes very
carefully, and found them no worse than three years
ago.

1 Daughter of tlie 3rd Lord Vivian, Eritisli Ambassador in Rome
1891-1893 ; maid of honour to Queen Victoria 1899-1901, and after-
wards to Queen Alexandra ; married Lieut. -General Sir Douglas (after-
wards Meld-Marshal Earl) Haig in 1905 ; now the widowed Countess
Haig.

TTT —

548

TPIE GERMAN CROWN PRINCE [chap, xvi

[Telegram.'] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Berlin Schloss, '7th May 1900, — Ceremony went
off most happily. The boy^ behaved very nicely.
The way he took his oath was most touching and
effective. So glad Georgie could be present.

Splendid summer weather. William I. R.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Prince of Wales.

WiNBSOR Castle, &th (?) May 1900.

Dearest Bertie, — . . . I wish to express to you
my earnest hope that you will not go to Paris for the
Exhibition. All kinds of people of every sort will be
there, and you would have to be perpetually watched
and followed about — ^which would be very disagree-
able to you — and even then would run great risk.
We are all most anxious that your precious life should
not be jeopardised.

Would you dine on Thursday or Friday ? I should
prefer Thursday. . . .

Ever your devoted Mama, V. R. I.

Queen Victoria to Lord Roberts,

[Copy.]

10th May 1900. — . . . The Queen’s object in
writing now is to explain the very unfortunate
publication of Lord Roberts’s despatch, with his opin-
ion of the conduct of certain officers which he doubt-
less considered as confidential. This was the opinion
and decision of the whole Cabinet, as well as of herself
and the Commander-in-Chief. Suddenly, without in-
forming the Queen or the Prime Minister and any of
the other Ministers, Lord Lansdowne published them
and his correspondence with Lord Roberts, The
effect was most unfortunate and damaging, and the
Queen is very desirous that Lord Roberts should
know all this, and would strongly urge him to put
'"''strictly confidential^^ and '''' secret as there is not
that caution exercised in the War Office which
should be.

' The Crown Prince of Germany, who came of a^e.

1900] THE QUEEN, LD. ROBERTS AND DESPATCHES 349

The Queen hopes and thinks that it cannot
happen again, and she has given orders that nothing
of that sort should ever be published without her
previous knowledge, but it is right that Lord Roberts
should be warned.

The Queen would not wish anyone but Lord
Kitchener to know what she has written on this
subject.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Buckingham Palace, lliA May 1900 . — ^The
Drawing-room began a little after three, Alix, Lenchen,
Louischen, Victoria of Wales, Daisy, Bertie, Arthur,
Georgie, and George C. being present. It was a very
full Drawing-room. The Duchess of Devonshire took
poor Lady Salisbury’s place. Several brides were
presented, including Lady Tullibardine and Lady
Castlereagh. Lady Lathom was also presented on
her change of title. I remained over an hour.

Drove at half-past five with Thora and Harriet P.
Everywhere there were crowds of people, who were
just as enthusiastic as when I was in London last.
Had tea on coming in with Beatrice and Thora. To
my great distress I found my dear little “ Bully ”
dead in his cage. I shall miss him very much, as I
had had him thirteen years.

The Duke of Argyll’s ^ funeral took place to-day,
there having been a great delay owing to many diffi-
culties, Heard from Lord Kintore, who represented
me, that all had gone off well, and been most impressive.
The Duke was buried at Kilmun, the family burial-
place. Bertie, Alix, Victoria, Georgie, May, Louise
and Macduff, and Arthur and Louischen dined,

r

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

16th May 1900 . — ^Lord Wolseley presents his
humble duty to the Queen, and is anxious to bring
before her Majesty the question of promoting Colonel
Baden-Powell, now defending Maf eking, to the rank of

' The Duke had died on the 24th April. His eldest son, the Marquis
of Lome, the Queen’s son-in-law, succeeded as 9th Duke.

550 RELIEF OP MAFEKING [chap, xvi

Major-General as soon as that place is successfully re-
lieved. It is hoped it may have been relieved to-day.

Colonel Baden-Powell has now been three years
a full Colonel, and is one of the most promising of
officers. His defence of Mafeking is beyond all praise,
and Lord Wolseley feels that his promotion would be
hailed by the Army as well deserved.

Young general officers are wanted badly at
present. I have the honour to be, your Majesty’s
most obedient and faithful servant, Wolseley.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, IQth May 1900. — Fine day.
Went with Beatrice to the kennels. The following
telegram was received from Major-General Baden-
Powell, dated 17th May : “ Happy to report Mafeking
successfully relieved to-day. Northern and southern
columns joined hands on 15th, attacked enemy
yesterday, 16th, entirely defeating them with loss.
^Relieving force marched into Mafeking this morning
at nine. Relief and defence force combined, attacked
enemy laager, shelled them out, nearly capturing
Slyman, and took large amount of ammunition and
stores. Townspeople and garrison of Mafeking
heartily grateful for their release.”

Started at half -past three with Arthur and Jane C.
for Wellington College, Beatrice having preceded us.
Changed horses at Bracknell. The whole way along
people turned out and cheered, especially where there
was an immense crowd, who came up quite close to
the carriage, cheering loudly, and finally singing God
Save the Queen. Flags were hung up and pictures of
General Baden-Powell exhibited in honour of the
relief. The people are quite mad with delight, and
London is said to be indescribable. Reached Welling-
ton College at five, Colonel Legge meeting us on horse-
back outside the gates and Sir F. Edwards outside
the college, where he presented the headmaster, Mr.
Pollock.! Beatrice, with Drino, was also there.

' Now Bishop of Norwich.

551

1900] REJOICINGS AND CONGRATULATIONS

Went first into the Chapel, where Mr. Pollock showed
us the memorial to the late Archbishop Benson, who
was first headmaster of Wellington. Then was rolled
in my chair to the Library and big dining-hall,
through the Cloisters, re-entered my carriage, and
drove to Mr. Pollock’s house, where we had tea. Sir
Lintorn Simmons was there, who is one of the
Governors, and lives close by. Mr. Bevir, one of the
masters in whose house Drino is, was presented, as
well as his wife. Left again at six. All the boys
were drawn up, including the volunteers, and the
head boy presented a bouquet in the college colours.
There was tremendous cheering as we drove off,
Arthur and Beatrice being with me. A very fine arch
was put up near Wellington College, on which was
inscribed, “ Welcome to the Queen of Mafeking.”
Bracknell was beautifully decorated. Only Jane
C[hurchill] and Victoria Grant dined with us.

Directly afterwards a torchlight procession, in-
cluding the Eton boys, volunteers, and many of the
townspeople came up into the Quadrangle. The fire
brigade also took part. They marched round the
Quadrangle, and sang God Save the Queen, which was
followed by cheers. The Mayor came up, and I
thanked him.

The King and Queen of Sweden to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Swedish Government, 19th May 1900. — ^We are
delighted to hear of the reKef of Mafeking, and send
your Majesty most heartfelt congratulations on this
event and other advantages lately gained by the
British troops. Oscar, Sophie.

[Telegramme.] The King of Portugal to Queen Victoria.

Lisbonne, 19 Mai 1900. — ^Venant d’apprendre en
ce moment liberation Mafeking apr^s hh’oique defense
vous prie accepter mes plus sinceres felicitations.
C^ TIT, os.

552

AUSTRALIAN FEDERATION BILL [chap, xvi

[Telegram.] The Empress Frederick to Queen Victoria.

Fbiedbichshof, IQih May 1900. — ^Many affec-
tionate thanks. Am indeed delighted. Am thankful
this really good news. Congratulations. Victobia.

Queen Victoria to Lord George Hamilton.
[Cypher Telegram.]

WiNDsoB CastlEj 20th May 1900. — I approve the
honours proposed for my birthday, though still finding
the same fault in not having enough natives amongst
them.

But I am surprised and disappointed at not seeing
the name of one of the devoted nurses for whom
specially in fact I and you also wanted this medal to
be instituted. It seems to me that very few of them
who exposed their lives are mentioned. I would wish
this omission to be rectified before I approve the
medal of the Kaiser-i-Hind.

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 2lst May 1900. — ^Mr. Balfour
with his humble duty to your Majesty begs humbly
to inform your Majesty that at the beginning of the
evening’s proceedings Mr. Chamberlain made a state-
ment on the subject of the changes proposed by the
Government in the Australian Bill. The Opposi-
tion, on the first reading of the BiU, had indicated
the not very patriotic intention of making mischief
between us and our colonies out of the small difference
which had arisen respecting the maintenance of the
appeal to the Privy Council. Since the first reading,
negotiations have been going on between Mr. Cham-
berlain and the Australian delegates ; and these have
resulted in a complete agreement on the controverted
points. Mr. Chamberlain’s announcement of this
fact practically defeated the Opposition tactics ; and
it became quite impossible to turn the bill into a
controversial measure. Mr. Asquith at once recog-
nised the fact ; and made an excellent speech on the

1900] ORANGE FREE STATE ANNEXED 553

new lines, quite without party bias, and doing full
justice both to the framers of the Australian Bill and
to the British Government. The second reading was
passed unanimously amid loud cheers. . . .

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

[Cypher Telegram.’]

‘21st May 1900. — ^Mr. Chamberlain presents his
humble duty to your Majesty, and begs to ask your
Majesty’s pleasure as to the name of the new Colony
formerly known as the Orange Free State. Mr.
Chamberlain has consulted Sir A. Milner, who recom-
mends that it should be designated the Orange River
Colony, in which Mr. Chamberlain concurs. If your
Majesty’s approval is given to the Proclamation and
Lord Roberts is ready, Mr. Chamberlain thinks that
your Majesty’s birthday would be an appropriate day
for the issue of the Proclamation.

Queen Victoria to Mr. Chamberlain.

[Cypher Telegram.]

WiNDSoa Castle, 21st May 1900. — I quite approve
the name of Orange River Colony, and the day of the
Proclamation. Trust you hear reassuring news from
Coomassie.

What a blessing and satisfaction is the relief of
Mafeking so heroically defended !

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oteice, 22nd! May 1900. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully and gratefully
acknowledges your Majesty’s very gracious con-
gratulations to him and his family on the confirma-
tion of the happy news from Mafeking. It is, indeed,
a most blessed termination of a long and wearing
anxiety. 1 No news as yet arrived giving any intelli-
gence of the state of health in which the besieged
were found. The strain of their long hardships and
exertions must have been very severe.

I Lord Edward Cecil, Lord Salisbury’s soldier son, was one of those
shut up in Mafekincr.

654 CONGRATULATIONS FROM KAISER [chap, xvi

Lord Salisbury respectfully thanks your Majesty
for allowing him to read the Viceroy’s letter, which
he returns.

Mr. Chamberlain’s compromise with the Australian
delegates appears to have been well received.

[Cypher Telegram.] Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

2Srd May 1900. — ^Viceroy entirely shares your
Majesty’s desire to reward the faithful nurses. But
though he mentioned them to local Governments, no
names were recommended to him except two from
Bombay, for order of St. John, which he accordingly
submitted. . . .

He has given silver K[aiser-i-]H[ind] to five lady
do ctor s and missionaries . If it is your Maj esty ’ s desire
that K.H. should supersede St. John’s for nurses,
Viceroy will act accordingly in future, but local
Governments seem to have found it difficult to pick out
nurses as specially meritorious, where all have done
well. Moreover, famine work has lately eclipsed plague.

[Cypher Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Lord Curzon.

2Uh May 1900. — ^Do not wish K.H. to supersede
St. John’s for nurses, but they were chiefly in my
thoughts when I proposed this new decoration, and
now hardly any of them get it. I hoped it would
partly take the place of the Royal Red Cross.

The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

W^iesbaden, 23j-rf May 1900.

Most beloved Gbandmama, — There is, I am
quite sure, no doubt whatever that you may on this
birthday thank Providence from all your heart for
the way she has led you and your country. After
months of anxiety and care, through many a dark
hour of uncertainty, and amid the loss of many friends
and brave men. Heaven has at last granted what you
hoped for — success ! The gift is well worth rejoicing
over, and I venture to assert that among all people
on the Continent there is no one who is happier on

1900] EIGHTY-FIRST BIRTHDAY 555

your behalf than your eldest grandson. My sincerest
and heartiest wishes for to-morrow are at the same
time joined by the most fervent prayers for your
health and life ! It will be with deep emotion that
you can say to yourself that the whole British nation
will keep your birthday with a joy and pride as never
before ! Because, though many a family has suffered,
yet the national honour and that of the Army has
been maintained, and townspeople and garrisons that
have fought and suffered for their Queen and her
cause have been relieved ! The whole of us will
to-morrow be assembled with dear Mama at Fried-
richshof to drink your health with all our hearts.
Mama is pretty well, and seems to suffer less pain just
now. Our present is a clock surrounded by the
photos of Dona, me, and the children, your great-grand-
children ; our idea was the German proverb Dem
Gliicklichen schldgt keine Stunde ! So may it ever be
for you, that is the fervent wish of your most devoted
and dutiful grandson, William.

Extract from the Queeri’s Journal.

Balmoral, 24fA May 1900. — ^Again my old birth-
day returns, my eighty-first ! God has been very
merciful and supported me, but zny trials and
anxieties have been manifold, and I feel tired and upset
by all I have gone through this winter and spring.
Beatrice came in early with a nosegay to congratulate
me. Had my present table in my sitting-room, and
received so many pretty things. Bertie and Alix
gave me a lovely chain to wear in the daytime, a
beautiful screen, and the Duke of Wellington’s hands
in bronze, from the Peel sale, which I am very glad
to have. I have not the time to describe all the other
gifts. All in the house dined, including Sir Walter
Parratt and Mr. Forbes. After my health had been
drunk, I proposed that of the Army in South Africa.
We had some nice music after dinner.

The number of telegrams to be opened and read
was quite enormous, and obliged six men to be sent

566 INNUMERABLE TELEGRAMS [chap, xvi

for to help the two telegraphists in the house. The
answering of them was an interminable task, but it
was most gratifying to receive so many marks of
loyalty and affection. Some of the telegrams were
very touchingly worded, and they came from every
part of the world. I had a nice one from Lord
Roberts, and from the Household Cavalry.

Administrator of Victoria to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

ViCTOEiA, 24f/i May 1900. — All Victorians rejoice
simultaneously and with glad enthusiastic hearts on
your Majesty attaining to your eighty-second year
in middle of very great happiness of your people, and
very great triumph of your Majesty’s Army. She
[the Colony of Victoria] prays you may live for a long
time in middle of undiminished happiness and glory

[Telegram.] Sir Alfred Milner to Mr. Chamberlain.

South Africa, 2Uh May 1900. — ^Loyal women of
Graafreinet desire to send following message to her
Majesty the Queen : “ From our hearts we congratulate
our beloved Queen. May God bless her and soon
restore peace to her Empire ! ”

[Telegram.] General Baden-Powell to Queen Victoria.

Kimberley (Maeeking Runner), 2,Sth May 1900.
— ^Yom’ Majesty’s most gracious message amply repays
anything we may have suffered, and heartens us to
renewed efforts to uphold the honour of our Queen.
Baden-Powell.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegrami]

Uh June 1900. — ^With regard to Mr. Chamberlain’s
telegram to Sir A. Milner which I received yesterday,
I earnestly trust that Lord Roberts wiU not leave so
long as it is found necessary to continue military
operations, and not before all military arrangements
for the future are determined ; and, remembering as I

‘ a similar message came from New South Wales.

1900] LORD ROBERTS IN PRETORIA 557

do from former experiences, I do beg that sufficient
troops may be retained to positively ensure us from
any possible rising or attack from the Boers or dis-
affected Dutch. . . . The great fault we always commit
is withdrawing our troops too soon ; then fresh troubles
arise, and more have to be sent. Do not disregard
my earnest warning or even protest. Surely it is too
early to settle what is to be done, when Pretoria is
not yet in our hands and the fighting not over.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

4ith June 1900. — ^Humble duty. I will communi-
cate with Secretary of State for War to prevent any
orders for return of troops being given until matter
can be carefully considered. Some form of Civil
Government, however rough, may be necessary as a
provisional measure. It will of course depend on the
military support, and troops to maintain it must be
retained in Africa. But a Military Government with-
out any civil form is seldom successful. Even in the
Soudan we had to set up a Civil Govermnent supported
by military force.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Balmobax, 5th June 1900. — StiU feeling far from
well, and could not breakfast out as I had hoped. Only
got out for a short turn with Lenchen and Thora,
and then sat out at the Cottage. A telegram came
from Lord Roberts, saying : “■ We are now in pos-
session of Pretoria. The official entry wiU be made
at two o’clock this afternoon.” This was, indeed, a
great joy and satisfaction. Drove in the afternoon
with May and Aline M[ajendie], taking our tea with
us. Just before dinner heard from Lord Roberts
the unsatisfactory news that a battalion of Irish
Yeomanry had surrendered to a large force of Boers.
Lord Methuen, who had been ordered to their
assistance, made a wonderful march, but alas ! came
too late. Almost directly after this received a further

558 LORD KITCHENER ON THE SITUATION [cjiap. xvi

telegram from Lord Roberts, saying ; “ The occupa-
tion of the town passed off most satisfactorily, and the
British flag is now hoisted on the top of the Govern-
ment offices.”

[Telegram.] Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Peetohia, 6th June 1900. — ^Your Majesty’s
gracious telegram has given us all the greatest
gratification, sick and wounded doing well, nearly
200 officers and 3,500 prisoners have been released,
900 were taken away shortly before we reached
Pretoria. Roberts.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to Lord Roberts.

Balmoral, 6th June 1900. — We have just drunk
your health and that of the brave army in South Africa,
with many cheers by torchlight. Am very anxious to
know if you know where the 900 prisoners have been
taken to. How is the Duke of Norfolk ? V. R. I.

Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

Pketobia, Gift June 1900.

Madam, — ^Your Majesty will have heard by tele-
graph the details of our recent march here. The
troops are all well and in excellent spirits ; they have
marched splendidly, and whenever we have experienced
resistance they have fought very steadily. The
Cavalry and mounted Infantry have had the most of
the fighting, and have greatly improved since we
started. The Artillery and transport have also done
well. I hope, however, we shall get some improved
guns after this campaign is over.

Lord Roberts is very well, and stands the hard work
he has to do wonderfully.

We have a very long line of communications, and
the activity of the Free State Boers is a source of
anxiety. There are no less than three divisions, as
well as a large force of Yeomanry and mounted In-
fantry, and 2,800 men of General Brabant’s mounted
colonial troops on the Heilbron-Lindley-Senekal-
Ficksburg line, but the Boers manage to get through

1900] “BOXER” RISING IN CHINA 559

and threaten our railway. They have recently
suceeeded in surrounding a battalion ol Yeomanry
and in cutting off one of our convoys of supplies. I
expect to leave here to-morrow for the south to look
after matters on the line. If General Buller could
get clear of Laings Nek, either to the north or into the
Free State, it would be a great assistance.

It is very difficult to prevent our troops being
caught in traps carefully prepared for them by an
enemy that does not wear uniform, and can at any
moment pose as honest farmers. They are appar-
ently getting heartily sick of the war, and it may
collapse before long. I hear the burghers are only
kept in the field by the greatest persuasion of their
Commandants, and the threats of Messrs. Kruger
and Sfceyn of imprisonment and confiscation of
property for all who hand in their arms. . . .

Mrs. Kruger and Mrs. L. Botha, wife of the Com-
mandant-General, are both here and being treated
with every respect.

It has been a great pleasure to release the prisoners ;
they are looking pale and worn, and I hear some of the
officers quite broke down and wept tears when they
saw the troops marching through the town with bands
playing, and knew that their captivity was over.

I have the honour to be, Madam, your Majesty’s
most obedient humble servant, Kitchener.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

6th June 1900. — Sir Claude MacDonald’s telegrams
Nos. 95 and 96.^ Situation looks very serious. Trust at
all events we shall display no apathy, and that whatever
is asked for by Sir Claude MacDonald will be agreed to.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

7th June 1900, Received 9.30 a.m. — ^Humble duty.
Your Majesty’s cypher. The Admiral has been

‘ About tlu- Boxer Risine. See Introductory Note to this chapter.

560 THANKS FROM EMPEROR MENELEK [chap, xvi

instructed to concert his action with the other Naval
Officers as Sir C. MacDonald desired. The widest
discretion has been given to Admiral in regard to the
measures to be adopted, as it would not be safe to give
detailed instructions from here. The Admiral has
increased his naval force at Taku.

The Emperor Menelek to Queen Victoria.

Addis Ababa, 8th June 1900. — The Lion of the
Tribe of Judah hath prevailed.

Menelek II, King of Kings of Ethiopia, to her Most
Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria, Queen of England
and Empress of India, Protector of Religion and
Defender of Christianity, Peace be to her Majesty.

I have received the two horses and dogs which
your Majesty was good enough to send me ; the horses
were very good and fine horses, and the dogs were
very nice and wonderful runners, for in our country
we have never seen a dog that can catch a running
hare. I thank your Majesty very much for sending
me all this.

Regarding the southern frontier, I leave to your
Majesty to settle it for me, for my wishes are to have
our friendly relationship to grow stronger.

May the Lord preserve your Majesty in good
health, with prosperity and peace to your Majesty’s
kingdom !

The Empress Taitou to Queen Victoria.

(?) 8th June 1900. — ^From the Empress Taitou, the
Light of Ethiopia, to her Most Gracious Majesty
Queen Victoria, Queen of England and Empress of
India, Peace be to your Majesty.

I have received the book and engravings which
your Majesty was kind enough to send me. I was
longing always to have your Majesty’s photograph,
the reason I longed it was because I knew that I will
never have the chance of seeing your Majesty, but my
heart’s wish was to see your Majesty in person.

I received the little dog your Majesty sent me.

1900] QUEEN’S ANXIETY ABOUT PEKIN 561

He was a very nice little dog, but death took him
from me.

I thank your Majesty.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
{Cypher Telegram.]

9th June 1900. — Feel anxious for personal safety
of Sir C. MacDonald, Have you considered possibility
of removal of Foreign Ministers from Pekin ? If one
of them were killed war would be inevitable.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

10th June 1900. Received 7 p.m. — ^Humble duty.
It would be imprudent to interfere with Sir C. Mac-
Donald’s entire discretion as to his movements. If
he left Pekin, Russia backed by France would
remain supreme. We are hurrying up all the force
available. Russia, not China, seems to me the great-
est danger of the moment.

Sir E, Satow, Minister at Tokio, is unluckily in this
country.

Lord Roberts to the Marquis of Lansdowne.^
[Telegram.]

Phetoria, 11th June. — ^In the principal square of
Pretoria a pedestal with its foundations has been
erected on which it was intended to place eventually
the statue of President Kruger. The Army in South
Africa desires, if permission is granted, to subscribe
for a statue of her Majesty to be placed on this pedes-
tal. Before, however, I can move in the matter, I
shall be glad if you will ascertain if the proposal
would be acceptable to the Queen. Roberts.

Endorsed : —

10th June 1900. — ^The Queen considers that, while
the proposal is gratifying, it is premature. Lord
Cross asked to explain this to Lord Lansdowne.

1 Submitted by Lord Lansdowne to the Queen.

562

INDIAN NATIVES AND HONOURS [chap, xvi

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Viceregal Lodge, Simla, 12th June 1900. —
. . . With regard to the Honour Lists this year, the
Viceroy would like your Majesty to know how earn-
estly he endeavoured to meet your wishes about the
recommendation of Natives. He can of course only
act upon the lists submitted by the Governors and
Lieut. -Governors. Now he found upon enquiry that
the next most eligible name for the C.I.E. (after the
native names submitted) was that of a young man
who had only been two years in the service of the
Government, and is not yet twenty-five years of age.
How could the Viceroy recommend this young Bur-
man for an order, when on the lists were scores of
names that represented twenty and thirty years’ hard
and unrewarded service ? The Viceroy may assure
your Majesty that he has gone and will go as far in
the direction of conferring rewards upon deserving
Indians as any of his predecessors have ever done,
and as it is possible to do without depreciating the
value of your Majesty’s gifts. Public opinion in this
country certainly does not accuse the Viceroy of
being at all censorious or grudging in his recognition
of native claims. It is his one ambition in India to
leave the relations between the two races better than
he found them ; and the way to do this seems to
him to be to hold the scales absolutely even, and to
mete out equal justice, equal praise, reward, recogni-
tion, or, if it be necessary, equal criticism, censure, or
punishment to both. . . .

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cypher Telegram.]

13th June . — Consul Crowe 287, 13th inst. Treat-
ment of prisoners ^ disgraceful and inhuman. Please
remonstrate through Lord Roberts, point out differ-
ence of our treatment of Boer prisoners, and hold
Kruger and Boer authorities personally responsible.

‘ These were some 900 prisoners whom the principal Boer army in
the field were carrying along with them. See next pane.

1900] BOERS AND THEIR PRISONERS 563

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

16th June 1900. — Should be glad to hear your
views on the state of affairs in China, which seem to me
most serious ; also please say what you propose to do.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

16th June 1900. Reed. 7 p.m. — ^Humble duty.
Your Majesty’s telegram of to-day. Troops are being
sent forward to Hong-Kong and Singapore, to be
replaced by Indian regiments. Viceroy of India has
expressed himself ready to send a larger expedition.
He has been instructed to prepare it. Mr. Goschen is
sending a battleship and one or two cruisers from
Mediterranean. Japanese have sent one thousand
more men, and will be encouraged to send more.

Everything is at the disposal of Admiral Seymour.
We are doing our utmost to keep our communications
with him open. The fact that the Austrian Legation,
which is the weakest, has been able to repel completely
a Boxer attack shows that the Boxers are a mere mob.

[Cypher Telegram.] Mr. Bertie ^ to Sir Arthur Bigge.

18th June 1900. — ^Following received from Consul-
General Lorenzo Marques No. 201. Doctor Bidenkap
returned here to-day with the permission of Boer
Government. He asks me for clothing, blankets, and
medical comforts for our prisoners.

Their correct number is, 5 officers of Lieutenant’s
rank and 921 men. I am promised their names in a
few days.

Doctor reports that all are suffering more or less
from dysentery ; their condition is piteous : no
shelter, little food beyond rotten mealy pulp. This is
not fault of Boers there, who are themselves no better
off, but the fault of Government.

Doctor considers that their captivity cannot last

1 Assistant Under-Secretary at the Foreign Office ; afterwards Sir
Francis Bertie, and Ambassador first in Rome, and then in Paris ;
eventually Viscount Bertie of Thame,

TTT H7

564 LORD ROBERTS TO THE QUEEN [chap, xvi

long under .the circumstances, and he expects they will
soon be sent here. 1 am sending to-morrow clothing
and comforts. Doctor has been told by his Govern-
ment to expect shortly 500 more prisoners and 15
officers, but he regards this as usual nonsense.

Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

PiULTOEiA, 21 sf June 1900.

Madam, — I have had the great honour to receive
two most gracious telegrams and a letter dated the
10th May from your Majesty since I reached Pretoria.
I beg to offer my most respectful thanks for the same,
and to assure your Majesty that the telegrams, which
were published in Army Orders, have given the liveliest
satisfaction to all the troops in South Africa.

Everything is, I trust, going on well here. The
war still hangs on, and will continue to do so until we
have been able to bring the whole of the Orange Free
State to terms. Contrary to all expectations, the
inhabitants in the north-east portion of that colony
have proved themselves more difficult to deal with
than the Transvaalers, The latter would, I have
reason to believe, give in if they had only themselves
to consider. With us in occupation of Pretoria and
Johannesburg, they feel that it is hopeless for them to
resist any longer. President Kruger is living in a
railway carriage in constant terror of being captured
and sent to St. Helena. He is distressed at being
separated from his wife, whom he left here, and it is
said he feels that he acted in a manner unworthy of
the ruler of a Province, in having carried off all the
gold he could lay hands on, leaving the State officials
to be paid their salaries by means of notes which no
bank, under existing circumstances, wiU cash. But
the two States made a compact that there should be no
peace overtures without the consent of both parties,
and as Mr. Steyn is stiU able to hold out, Kruger has
to hve in his railway carriage, ready to move off at a
moment’s notice in the event of our troops appearing
anywhere near him.

565

1900] ms HOPES OF BOER SUBMISSION

The country is of great extent, and hitherto I have
had to be satisfied with limiting operations to that
portion through which the main line of railway runs.
It was necessary, in the first instance, to gain posses-
sion of the principal towns, for so long as they were
occupied by the enemy, no one believed that we were
getting the upper hand. We are now firmly estab-
lished at Bloemfontein, Kroonstad, Johannesburg,
and Pretoria, and the only places where the enemy
exists in any numbers are in the neighbourhood of
the Vaal river, to the east of Johannesburg and Kroon-
stad. Strong columns are moving in that direction,
and, if all goes well, by the time your Majesty receives
this letter the enemy ought to have been driven into a
very small corner, a measure which will, I trust, result
in a general submission. . . .

I have had two visits from Mrs. Botha, the wife
of the Commandant-General who succeeded Joubert.
She is a very nice pei'son, Colonial born, not Dutch,
and is evidently most anxious for peace to be made.
On the second occasion of her coming here, she brought
Mrs. Lucas Meyer, the wife of another Boer General,
who wanted some little help which I was able to give.

Major-General Baden-Powell has been in Pretoria
the last day or two. It was most interesting hearing
all about the siege of Mafeking from him. I was glad
to find him in famous health and spirits.

I am thankful to say that sickness is gradually
decreasing. Enteric still exists, but the type is milder
and the deaths fewer. . . .

In the fervent hope that this will find your Majesty
in the best of health, and with my most respectful
duty, I am, madam, your Majesty’s most obedient
humble servant, Roberts.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

House oe Lords, 26thJunel900. — ^Humble duty.
Chinese Minister brings me telegram from Li Hung
Chang as follows :

566 LORD I-IOPETOUN FOR AUSTRALIA [chap, xvi

“ Tientsin, captured by the Boxers and dispersed
troops, was recovered and taken by the English and
French forces proceeding now to Pekin. Admiral
Seymour, it is said, returned to Tientsin. I conclude
from this that diplomatic body is safe, and I myself
will proceed to the capital, as a telegraphic Imperial
command reaches me.” Salisbury.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal,

Windsor Castle, 2'7th June 1900. — Had some
conversation with Mr. Chamberlain about the Aus-
tralian Federation, the Bill for which has passed. I
rather objected to the name Australian Common-
wealth, and would have preferred Dominion, but he
said it did not imply anything like a Republic, quite
the reverse. The Australians merely wished for it, as
they did not like having the same name as the
Canadians. He thought the very best person to
become the Governor-General of this great Confedera-
tion would be Lord Hopetoim,i who had done so well in
Australia before. I rather demurred to this, as he wiU
be a great loss to me, but can of course say nothing
against it. What the Australians particularly wish,
and Mr. Chamberlain also, is that a Prince should
open the first Parliament of this great Confederation.

Some of the Colonials had already offered to go to
China if it was wanted, and he thought this offer ought
to be accepted. But none of those who had fought in
South Africa could go there. He lamented with me
over the Indians having been quite left out of the war,
when all the others had joined. He hoped the accounts
from South Africa were improving, but feared there had
been some neglect of late in looking sufficiently after
the sick, so many of whom had died in great numbers.

2Sth June . — ^My Coronation day. At half-past
three the Khedive arrived. Arthur and Georgia
brought him into the Audience-room. His brot&r

1 The 7th Earl of Hopetoun, who had been Governor of Victoria
1889-1895, and was Lord Chamberlain 1898-1900. He was Governor-
General of the Commonwealth of Australia 1900-1902, and was created
in 1902 Marquis of Linlithgow.

1900] KHEDIVE ABBAS AT WINDSOR 567

Prince Mehemet Ali came with him. The Khedive
looks well, but is still weak. He has rather a good-
looking face, but is short and stout, Beatrice and
Marie were with me. I asked him to sit down, and
we tallced for a little while, after which he presented
his suite, who came in severally. The Sirdar and Sir
Rennell Rodd were amongst them. The Khedive is
pleasing and speaks English quite fluently, hut French
and German come almost more easily to him. Had
tea, as usual, at Frogmore, near the Cottage, and
drove with Marie. Had a large dinner in the dining-
room, and I sat between the Khedive and Georgie,
The band of the Grenadiers played during dinner, and
the private band afterwards. Sat in the Red drawing-
room. Talked to most of the Khedive’s suite, also to
Lord Salisbury, who spoke again of Lord Hopetoun’s
appointment,

Mr. Balfour to Queen Victoria.

House of Commons, 29th June 1900. — ^Mr. Bal-
four with his humble duty to your Majesty begs
humbly to inform your Majesty that the whole
evening was expended in discussing Mr. Burdett-
Coutts’s letter to The Times on the alleged medical
breakdown in South Africa. Mr. Wyndham rose as
soon as it became clear that Mr. Coutts was unwilling
to begin the debate. He made a very full and most
excellent speech ; he showed that all necessary medi-
cal supplies had been sent out, that the difficulty
was one of transport, and that the extreme rapidity of
Lord Roberts’s march made it absolutely inevitable
that there should be a partial and temporary break-
down of hospital arrangements. Mr. Coutts followed.
He was very long and rambling ; but he absolutely
exonerated the Government, and attributed the errors
which he enumerated to local officials. The Opposi-
tion then took up the cry, and Mr. Balfour regrets
to have to say that the line they adopted was very
little to their credit. They were manifestly anxious
to twist the debate for merely party purposes. From

568 HOSPITAL COMMISSION FOR S. AFRICA [chap, xvi

the nature of the case they could only attack the
Government by attacking the Generals ; and this they
did without the least reason or the least scruple.
This style of debating reached its culmination in a
speech of Mr. Lloyd George, who aetually went the
length of asserting that the Generals in the Field had
sacrificed the lives of the troops to political considera-
tions ! This was too much for Mr. Balfour, who
replied in somewhat warm language, reiterating the
unanswerable arguments used by Mr. Wyndham
earlier in the evening. Sir H. Bannerman concluded
the debate in a characteristically colourless oration.
There was no division.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin to Sir Fleetwood Edwards.

Mansion House, Dublin, SOth June 1900.

Dear Sir Fleetwood Edwards, — It is with
feelings of the greatest gratification that I write to
acknowledge having received into my custody for the
citizens of Dublin the splendid cup which her Majesty
has been graciously pleased to present to the City.
It is certainly a magnificent memento of her visit to
Dublin, and one which will always be treasured by
our citizens amongst their choicest possessions, as
being a token of her Majesty’s appreciation of, and
her pleasurable feelings regarding her visit to, her
Irish subjects in April 1900. With sincere thanks, I
am, yours very truly, Thomas W. Pile, Lord Mayor.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

30th June 1900. — Quite approve the proposal,
mentioned in your interesting letter, of a Com-
mission to enquire into the condition of hospitals in
South Africa. As the complaints refer to the fever
and other medical cases, think it most essential that
a physician, not a surgeon, a man thoroughly ex-
perienced in the treatment of fever cases, etc., should
be appointed.

1900] REPORTS OF MURDERS IN PEKIN

569

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 1st July 1900. — ^Distressing
news has come from China, that the German Minister
was murdered at Pekin, already on the 18th of last
month, by the Chinese regular troops, and that the
other Legations are in the greatest danger. Peel very
grieved and anxious about our good Minister Sir Claude
MacDonald.

[Telegram.'] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

WiLHELMSHAVEN, 2nd July 1900.— On my arrival
here the terrible news of the shocking murder of my
Minister Von Kettler in China reached me, and also
that the other Legations with their personnel are as
good as lost. In consequence I have ordered the
first division of my fleet to China, and shall send out a
force of troops to join those fighting out there side by
side with your bluejackets, who to my great satisfac-
tion have been praised by Admiral Seymour. Willy.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

2nd July 1900. — Humbly submitted. In conse-
quence of your Majesty’s representations 5,818 feather
piUows were at once issued to the Cape hospitals and
1,450 to those at home.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 3rd July 1900. — ^The news from
China is most despairing, but it is very difficult to get
any authentic reports, and the news is so conflicting.
Those, chiefly through Reuter, are terribly distressing,
and we fear the worst for my good Minister Sir Claude
MacDonald.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, Uh July 1900. — ^Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to submit for your Majesty’s signature, if it meets
with your Majesty’s approval, a Commission authoris-
ing Lord Roberts to annex the South African Republic

670 PEKIN: FURTHER HORRORS [chap, xyi

to your Majesty’s Dominions, and to make provision
for the temporary settlement thereof. The Com-
mission is in terms similar to that empowering Lord
Roberts to annex the Orange Free State. If your
Majesty approves, it is proposed to authorise Lord
Roberts to issue, at such time as he may think fit, a
Proclamation in accordance with the Commission now
submitted.

Mr. Chamberlain also begs to submit for your
Majesty’s approval that the South African Republic,
after annexation, shall be known as “ The Transvaal.”
Sir Alfred Milner is in favour of thus reverting to the
name by which the country was known when it was
formerly part of your Majesty’s Dominions.

Extract from the Queen’’ s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 5th July 1900. — ^Very bad news
from Pekin, through Reuter. All the foreigners,
including 400 soldiers, women and children, who held
out at British Legation, till ammunition and food
exhausted, reported killed, but this is not yet officially
confirmed, so that one lives in hopes it may not all be
true. Feel quite miserable, horror-struck,

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
{Cypher Telegram.]

5th July 1900. — I am horror-struck at the dreadful
news from China, which Reuter gives this morning ;
is there not a hope it may not be entirely true ? Such
a thing would be quite unparalleled, and are we to
stand and bear this worse than insult without some
strong action ? I feel quite iU at the thought of the
poor MacDonalds and all the ladies and children, it
haunts me day and night. Ought not the Chinese
Minister to receive his passports if these news be true ?

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
{Cypher Telegram.]

5.20 p.m. 5th July [1900]. — ^Humble duty. Your
Majesty’s cypher. It is impossible to exaggerate the
horror of the news which wr receive from Chin'’.

571

1900] LORD ROBERTS ON THE HOSPITALS

Unhappily, we have no ground to believe that it is
untrue : we are urging troops forward with all rapidity
in our power, but we cannot diminish the distance.

I have received from the United States Ambassa-
dor a letter to the effect that his Government still
declines to regard the situation as that of war with
China. He regards the condition of Pekin as one of
anarchy, whereby power and responsibility practically
devolve upon the local authorities. It appears to me
that we should maintain the same attitude.

\Telegram.'\ The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Brunsbuettel Koog, 5 lh July 1900. — Just read
the horrible news of the total annihilation of the
Legations, foreigners, and soldiers in Pekin, and hasten
to express my sincerest sympathy with your country
at the loss of poor Sir Claude MacDonald. This
means serious business. William I. R,

Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Pretoeia, 5th July 1900.

Madam, — . . . I hear that a great outcry is being
made about the management of hospitals in South
Africa. There may, no doubt, be room for improve-
ments in the system, but I can state from personal
knowledge that medical officers and nurses have been
most devoted, and that no suffering which could have
been prevented with the means at our disposal has been
allowed. I hear too it is the opinion of those who have
taken part in wars in other countries, that they have
never known a campaign in which so much has been
done for the sick and wounded. We have established
some very comfortable hospitals here, and have a large
proportion of nurses. Enteric still continues, I grieve
to say, but it is of a milder type than formerly.

I wish I could tell your Majesty that the war was
likely to end soon, but at present the Boers seem
inclined to hold out. I trust, however, it will not be
very long before peace is made.

With my most respectful duty, I am. Madam, your
Majesty’s most obedient humble servant, Roberts.

m INTERNATIONAL ZONES IN CHINA [chap, xvi

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oefice, Qth July 1900. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully submits to your
Majesty that a Cabinet Council was held to-day.

It was almost exclusively occupied in considering
the present terrible state of things at Pekin, and the
possibility of relieving Sir Claude MacDonald and the
other prisoners. The prospect looked very gloomy,
but we held that it was not yet time to abandon all
hope. It was therefore resolved to offer to the
Japanese to contribute financial support so far as
might be wanted, for an advance to Pekin for the relief
of the prisoners. We also sent a further message to
Sir Edward Seymour, pressing him further with
respect to an immediate advance.

Some discussion was also given with respect to the
Commission on medical treatment in South Africa.
In deference to the wish of the House of Commons, it
was resolved to appoint five^ Commissioners, finding
the other two among distinguished railway officials
and commercial leaders. Sir James Thornton, of the
Caledonian Railway, and Sir [John] Wolfe Barry are
mentioned.

Qth July . — ^Lord Salisbury with his humble duty
respectfully submits to your Majesty that the Chinese
Minister this evening brought to him a message from
Li Hung Chang, that the Legation was, according to his
belief, stiU unhurt.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 11th July 1900. — ^At three
o’clock left for London, and drove to Buckingham
Palace through crowds of most enthusiastic people. I
rested a little upstairs, and at five got into the victoria
with Alix, as three years ago, for the garden-party,
going first up to the tent where were all the Royal
Family and then drove twice round among the guests

^ The original three were Lord Justice Romer, Dr. Church, President
of the Royal College of Physicians, and Prof. Cunningham, formerly
head of the Royal CoUege of Surgeons in Dublin.

1900] QUESTION OF THEIR COMMAND 578

in the most broiling heat. After having tea we left,
just as we came, at twenty minutes to seven. The
crowds were still greater than when we arrived. I
was dreadfully hot and rather tired.

[Telegram.'] The Emperor of Korea to Queen Victoria.

Seoul, \Uh July 1900. — beg to express to your
Majesty my sincerest participation in the anxiety you
must feel for the safety of your representative in Pekin.
Assuring you of my sincerest friendship, I am, Hiung,
Empebob.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

WiNDsoB Castle, 18th July 1900. — Saw a private
of the Scots Guards in the proposed khaki working
and fighting dress, which seems very good and practi-
cal. The man himself liked it, and said it was very
comfortable.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Fobeign Office, 20th July 1900. — ^Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully submits that a
Cabinet was held yesterday.

The deliberations were protracted, but they were
entirely occupied with the consideration of the course
to be pursued by your Majesty’s Government, now
that it seemed too probable that the Legations have
been slaughtered. . . . The Cabinet discussed at
length the possibility of putting some foreign General
at the head of aU the European forces. On the whole
they were adverse to the idea ; but there was a great
difference of opinion. Lord Salisbury felt that unity
of command would be of great importance and value ;
but it was an entirely new experiment to put a large
body of English soldiers under a foreign military
Commander ; and before we did so it would be at all
events necessary to come to a very clear understand-
ing as to the ultimate objects for which the various
contingents of the several powers were to fight. For
the present it was resolved to ask for further explana-

574 SPECIAL MEDAL FOR THE WAR ? [chap, xvi

tions from Count Lamsdorff’^ as to the meaning and
aim of several of the expressions in the circular which
Monsieur Sellar had made. . . .

[Telegram.] Lord George Hamilton to Queen Victoria.

Whitehall, ^Qth July 1900. — Lord George Hamil-
ton with his humble duty. Viceroy telegraphs that
the Maharajah Sindhia of Gwalior has offered fuUy
equipped hospital ship for China, on which he is willing
to spend twenty lakhs of rupees. This offer is made
on behalf of himself, his mother and his wife, to testify
their loyalty to her Majesty the Queen Empress.
Lord George Hamilton begs to be authorised, while
accepting offer on behalf of H.M.’s Government, to
convey to his Highness through the Viceroy the
expression of your Majesty’s appreciation of the value
of this princely gift, and of the spirit of loyalty and
personal devotion which has inspired it.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to the Maharajah Sindhia,
OsBOENE, 21st July 1900. — I must ask your
Highness to accept my warmest thanks for your
splendid gift of a hospital ship, which has touched
me deeply. V. R. I.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria,
War Office, 21st July 1900. — Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he has
the honour to lay before your Majesty copies of
telegrams addressed to him by Lord Roberts and by
Sir AKred Milner to the Secretary-of-State for the
Colonies.®

Lord Lansdowne has considered the proposal in
consultation with the Comraander-in-Chief, and he
agrees with Lord Wolseley in thinking that one medal
only should be given for the South African campaign.

‘ Russian Foreign Minister in succession to M. Mouravieff, who
had died.

® Suggesting that a special star, in addition to the war medal,
should be issued to the South African forces, as tliis was the first war
in which Colonial troops came voluntarily to fight beside British troops.

1900] QUEEN’S FAILING HEALTH 575

There have been wars in which your Majesty’s
troops have had more than one decoration conferred
upon them, but this has almost invariably been when
they have served side by side with Forces supplied
by other Powers, the Rulers of which have bestowed
their medal upon the British as well as their own
troops.

Lord Lansdowne shares Lord Wolseley’s objection
to the multiplication of such distinctions, ‘ and the
gift of a second decoration “ regarded as coming from
her Majesty the Queen herself” (to use Sir Alfred
Milner’s words) would have the most unfortunate
effect of creating an impression that the South
African medal was not conferred by your Majesty.
Lord Lansdowne deprecates any action calculated
to support so mischievous an assumption. He pro-
poses to insist upon the fact that the medal, with
its numerous clasps, is bestowed by your Majesty,
and he trusts that it may be your pleasure to decorate
personally some representatives of the Colonial Forces
when they reach this country.

Lord Lansdowne did not feel justified in dealing
with this question without your Majesty’s approval,
which he trusts he may have the good fortune to
obtain.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.
[Cypher Telegram.]

OsBOE-NE, 24i/i July 1900. — Entirely agree with
you and Lord Wolscley that there ought to be no
other decoration but the War Medal with clasps.
The soldiers and Colonials should be made to under-
stand that it is the Sovereign’s gift and reward, and
the greatest which can be given.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

OsBOENE, 22nd July 1900. — ^Had a very bad night
and much pain in my back, from which I have now
suffered for some time, only getting to sleep at five
this morning, so I had breakfast rather late.

576

ILLNESS OE DUKE OE COBURG [chap, xvi

2Uh July , — Received a telegram from Mr. Gosehen
saying following just received from Admiral Seymour :
“By latest reports Legations at Peldn still holding
out, prospect more hopeful.” The news from South
Africa much the same. Fighting continues and
results in nothing very definite.

Have heard from Missy ^ both by letter and
telegram that poor Affie is very seriously unwell.
His throat and tongue having been very painful for
some time at Herculeshad, he was stopping at Vienna
to consult the doctors there, on his way home. His
own doctor said the best authorities did not think
well of him. This makes me anxious.

25th July . — Was much distressed this afternoon
to hear of a cypher from Mr. Milbanke, which was at
first withheld from me, that the physicians think
most seriously of poor dear Affie’s state of health.
A report is coming from the doctors, who wished I
should be prepared for its being of an alarming nature.
The malady it appears is incurable, and alas ! one can
only too well guess at its nature ! Affie himself is
quite ignorant of the danger in which he is, and the
doctors wish him on no accmmt to be informed. He
leaves Vienna for Coburg to-morrow.

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, 2Gth July 1900. — Mr.
Chamberlain presents his humble duty to your
Majesty, and begs to submit the following statement
in regard to future appointments of Australian
Governors.

In recent times these posts have been filled by
noblemen and others, generally possessed of large
private means, who have been able and w illin g to
spend very considerable sums in addition to their
official incomes which have been provided by the
Colonies. But of late it has proved to be increasingly
difficult to find gentlemen who are prepared to make

‘ The Duke of Coburg’s daughter, who married the Crown Prince
of Roumania, and is now the Queen Dowager of Roumania.

1900] COLONIAL GOVERNORS 577

this large pecuniary sacrifice, amounting in some
cases to many thousands a year. With the appoint-
ment of a Governor-General the office of State
Governor will become one of less status and re-
sponsibility than formerly, and it appears that some
of the Colonies propose to reduce the salaries, which
have already proved insufficient.

Mr, Chamberlain has accordingly informed the
Governments of the Colonies that under the altered
circumstances it will be necessary for him to re-
commend to your Majesty, for the office of State
Governor, gentlemen who have distinguished them-
selves in some branch of your Majesty’s service, but
who, not possessing large private means, will not be
able to maintain the scale of hospitality hitherto
adopted. The Colonial Governments have acquiesced
in this view, and Mr. Chamberlain proposes that the
gentlemen who may be appointed by your Majesty
should receive positive instructions not to spend more
than the salaries provided for them.

Before formally submitting any names to your
Majesty Mr. Chamberlain thinks that, in view of the
strong prejudice which formerly existed in Australia
against the appointment of gentlemen whose service
had been contoed to Crown Colonies, it would be
wise to consult confidentially Premiers of the several
Colonies and to find out whether such appointments
would be acceptable.

Mr. Chamberlain trusts that your Majesty will
approve of this course being taken in the present
instance, and in that case, and in the receipt of a
satisfactory reply from the Colonies, he will submit
recommendations to your Majesty for the three
Colonies which are or will be shortly vacant. As
at present advised Mr. Chamberlain thinks that Sir
Arthur Havelock, now Governor of Madras, would
be a good appointment for Victoria, Sir W, Hayne
Smith, now Governor of Cyprus, for West Australia,
and Sir Robert Llewellyn, now Administrator of the
Gambia, for Tasmania ; but if your Majesty should

578 ASSASSINATION OF KING HUMBERT [chap, xvi

be pleased to approve of the course proposed, he will
make further enquiries before finally submitting their
names for your Majesty’s approval.

Memorandum by Sir Arthur Bigge.

30th July 1900. — Sir A. Bigge wrote and thanked
Mr. Chamberlain for this letter, and said that the
Queen quite approved of the course he proposed to
take respecting the appointment of future Governors
of the Australian Colonies.

Extracts from the Queen^s Journal.

OsBOKNE, July 1900. — ^Received the report
I have been so anxiously expecting. The account
the doctors give of poor dear Affie’s condition is very
alarming. Am terribly anxious and upset.

2Qth July , — Saw Mr. Balfour, and had some con-
versation with him, as I had already had last night.
He spoke of a dissolution taldng place this autumn,
which he thought was advisable. Lord Salisbury had
also mentioned this to me the other day. It would
then only be on the settlement of South Africa,
whereas if it took place later on there might be all
sorts of difficulties and other questions, religious, etc.
Of course there was no fear of the Government not
having a good majority, though it might be as well
if it were less large. Then talked of various other
things.

Had a letter from Mr. Milbanke, giving the same
sad account of dear Affie. We are very anxious, and
Bertie wrote most kindly, proposing Sir Felix Semon
should go and see him.

Just before dinner received a most satisfactory'
telegram from Lord Roberts saying : “ Your Majesty
will be pleased to hear that General Prinsloo with his
army, numbering about 5,000, surrendered uncon-
ditionally to-day to General Hunter at Fauresberg.”
This is indeed good news.

30th July . — 'Was horrified on coming out to break-
fast to hear that the good kind King of Italy had been

1900] DEATH OF DUKE OP COBURG 579

shot at and killed last night, when returning from
giving away prizes at a gymnastic school. The
assassin, named Bressi, had lived for some time in
America, and was an avowed anarchist. Much dis-
tressed, as the King had always been so very kind to
us, and sent such kind telegrams on all occasions.

After luncheon had a telegram from Ernie Hohen-
lohe in answer to one of mine, enquiring if there was
any immediate danger. He said it might go on some
time, but serious complications might arise at any
time. At the same time got a telegram from Sir
Condie Stephen saying Affie had had a fair night, but
was weaker and drowsy, which I did not like. Before
dinner heard again that he was a little better, and had
sat in the garden with Marie and Ernie of Hesse.

{TeUgramme^ Queen Victoria to the Queen of Italy.

Osborne, 30 Juillet 1900. — Les paroles me man-
quent pour exprimer I’indignation et le profond
chagrin avec lesquels j’ai appris I’affreux malheur qui
vous frappe, ch^re niece. Je pleur avec vous la
perte terrible de ce cher Roi; pour lequel j’ai toujours
eu une grande affection et duquel je garderai un
inoubliable souvenir. Victoria R. I.

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

Osborne, 31si! July 1900. — ^A terrible day ! When
I had hardly finished dressing Lenchen and Beatrice
knocked at the door and came in. I at once asked
whether there were any news, and Lenchen replied,
“ Yes, bad news, very bad news ; he has slept away ! ”
Oh, God ! my poor darling Affie gone too ! My
third grown-up child, besides three very dear sons-in-
law. It is hard at eighty-one ! It is so merciful that
dearest Affie died in his sleep without any struggle,
but it is heartrending. Poor darling Marie, who Imew
of no real danger when she left, such a short time ago,
without a fear. It is too terrible also for the poor
daughters, who adored their father !

I was greatly upset, one sorrow, one trial, one

TTT — 38

580 SHOCK FOR THE QUEEN [chap, xvi

anxiety, following another. It is a horrible year,
nothing but sadness and horrors of one kind and
another. I think they should never have withheld
the truth from me, as long as they did. It has come
such an awful shock. I pray God to help me to be
patient and have trust in Him, who has never failed
me ! Everyone is quite stunned, and telegrams began
to pour in, already even from India, and the whole
day questions to be answered and messages sent.
Felt terribly shaken and broken, and could not realise
the dreadful fact. Recollections of dear Affie’s child-
hood and youth, and nowhere more vivid than here,
crowded in upon me. People are so dreadfully shocked,
and the Navy feels it deeply, for he was much beloved
in the service, and greatly admired, having been such
an excellent officer.

The whole day was spent in writing and answering
telegrams, Lenchen and Beatrice, who feel this sad
loss dreadfully, were most helpful. Took a short
drive with them after tea round by the sea, and we
four dined alone together. Afterwards Lenchen read
me some very pretty articles out of the Globe> Pall
Mall and St. Jameses. I asked Bertie to come here,
but he said he was too unnerved to come to-day, but
would do so to-morrow. Hear Hrino arrived for his
holidays this morning.

1st Aug . — ^Had a good night, but could hardly
realise our misfortune, on waking. Received the
following touching telegram from dear Marie yesterday
evening. “ Dear Alfred passed away quite peacefully
in his sleep this morning, after having been with us in
the garden in the afternoon. Most merciful release
from long suffering. Cannot realise this terrible
blow.” Bertie arrived with Tino. Bertie came at
once to my room, and was a good deal upset, as he
feels the loss of his dear brother terribly. We talked
over everything, and he is going straight to Coburg
to-morrow, with Georgia, Arthur, and ymmg Arthur.

I then saw Tino, who has just come from Fried-
richshof. Alas ! he did not give a good account of

1900] FUNERAL OF THE DUKE 581

dear Vicky. He and Bertie left again directly after
luncheon. Quantities of telegrams kept pouring in,
and the day was spent in answering them. We dined
again alone, and later Beatrice read to me in my room
out of some of my favourite religious books, which
was soothing.

[Telegramme.] The King of Italy to Queen Victoria.

Monza Reggia, 2 Aout 1900. — ^Profondement emu
par les tendres condoleances de votre Majeste, je la
remercie de la consolation qu’elle a donnee a mon cceur
qui n’oubliera jamais toutes les preuves de sa grande
bonte. J’ose esperer que votre Majeste voudra
reporter sur moi I’affection speciale qu’elle portait a
mon pere hien-aime, sachant que ma veneration et
mon devouement pour son auguste personne n’ont
pas de homes. VicTon Emmanuel.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, Uh Aug. 1900. — Another most trying
day. At twelve (eleven here) the funeral service will
take place at the Moritz Kirche, and to-night our
beloved Affie will be laid to rest near poor young
Alfred, in the family burial-place. I cannot realise
that we shall never see him again or hear his voice
and merry laugh, which I hear always ringing in my
ears ! He was my own dear child, so full of talent,
and we had such hopes of him in his new responsi-
bilities and the position he was filling so well.

At eleven we had a service, at the same time as the
one at Coburg. It was most impressive hearing the
minute guns being fired by the Australia, which had
come round to Osborne Bay for that purpose.

Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Peetokia, 6 th August 1900.

Madam, — . . . The war which your Majesty
trusted was drawing to a conclusion ... is not yet
at an end, but I trust that the events which have
occurred during the last fortnight will help consider-
ably to bring it to a satisfactory conclusion ere very

582 QUEEN’S SCARVES FOR COLONIALS [chap, xvi

long. The surrender of over 4,000 Boers to Sir
Archibald Hunter near Bethlehem, and the move of
Commandant He Wet with ex-President Steyn into
the Transvaal, practically closes the war so far as the
Orange River Colony is concerned. We are now doing
all we can to cut off De Wet’s force, and prevent their
joining Commandant- General Botha, an intensely
interesting and exciting operation, rendered more so
by the great size of the country, and the extraordinary
mobility of the Boers, who manage to slip away in the
most marvellous manner. Lord Kitchener is in tem-
porary command of the troops who are following up
De Wet, and General Ian Hamilton has a column
in readiness to move in any direction that may be
required.

Your Majesty will, I daresay, remember your
scarves made by your Majesty to be given to your
Colonial private soldiers. There was the greatest
competition to become the fortunate possessors of
these scarves, and it took a very long time to get the
required information, which would enable me to
decide as to the merits of those eligible for such a
coveted reward, on account of the troops being very
widely scattered and so constantly on the move. It
was finally settled that the followmg men were in all
respects the most deserving of the great honour, viz . :

Canadians . . Private R. R. Thompson.

New South Wales Private Duprayer.

New Zealand . Private PI. D. Coutts.

Cape Colony . Trooper L. Chadwick.

It turns out, as your Majesty wHl see from the
enclosed correspondence, that the Canadian recipient
is an American. He is evidently a grand fellow, and
as he is fighting for us, and was unanimously elected
by his comrades in Roberts’s Horse as the man most
worthy in all respects to receive the scarf, I decided
that the question of his nationality need not be con-
sidered a deterrence. I hope that this will meet with
your Majesty’s approval.

1000] RELIEF OP PEKIN LEGATIONS 583

I am thankful to say that sickness is decreasing
fast, both as regards numbers and virulence. Even
Mr. Burdett Coutts could scarcely find fault with our
hospital at present. There were some grains of truth
in his strictures at the time he wrote his letters to
The Times, but his statements were in all cases grossly
exaggerated, and in some instances quite untrue, as I
hope will be proved to the satisfaction of the Com-
mission now on the way to South Africa to enquire
into the matter.

As I telegraphed to Sir Arthur Biggc, the Army in
this country sympathises deeply with your Majesty
on the death of the Duke of Coburg. I am so very
sorry that your Majesty should have this great sorrow
at a time when there are so many important and
serious questions to occupy your Majesty’s attention.

The assassination of the King of Italy too is a
terribly sad thing, and demonstrates in a deplorable
manner how strong is the spirit of anarchy in some
countries.

With my most respectful duty, I am, Madam,
your Majesty’s most obedient humble servant,
Roberts.

Hearing that Prince Christian Victor had no suit-
able appointment in Natal, I telegraphed and offered
him an extra A.D.C.-ship on my staff. He has
accepted, and will, I hope, soon join me. R.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, I'dth Aug. 1900. — Tea out with Thora,
and just before received the most welcome news, for
which I thank (Jod most earnestly, that the Allies
had entered Pekin, and formd aU well at the Legations.
General Gaselee, with my Indian troops, seems to
have done admirably. He attacked Pekin early on
the 14th, which was held by the enemy, who resisted
obstinately. The Japanese and Russians were on
the north side of the canal, and the Americans and
English on the south. During the night the Japanese
blew up a gate on the east side of the Tartar city, the

584, CHARLES, DUICE OF COBURG [chap, xvi

Americans and English entering by the Jimg Pien
Gate. All forces had imited at the British Legation.
The Japanese lost 100 killed and wounded, while the
Chinese losses were 400.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram,]

20th Aug. (1900). — Humble duty, I received the
good news from China with the deepest relief. A
month ago we should not have deemed it possible. I
congratulated Sir Claude this morning.

General Gaselee deserves the greatest credit.

The steps to be taken next will be a matter of
great difficulty ; but no decision ought to be taken
till we have received the written reports describing
the recent crisis and its causes.

Extract from the Queen's J ournal.

Osborne, 22nd Aug. 1900. — ^Did not feel very well
all day. Rested and dozed after luncheon, which did
me good. Had tea in the breaHast tent, and then
drove with Lenchen and Emily A[mpthill]. When
I came in saw Sir Condie Stephen, who had just come
over from Coburg. He said how dreadful all had been,
and how much he had felt it, and the suddenness of
the end. He said little Charlie ^ had made an ex-
cellent impression.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Cypher Telegram.]

Osborne, 22nd Aug. 1900. — Hope you will desire
poor Sir C. MacDonald and family to leave Pekin
and get leave of absence, and that no future Minister
to China will be allowed ever again to remain there if
there is any sign of danger.

What answer will you give to Li Himg Chang’s
message to you ?

1 The Duke of Albany, son of Prince Leopold, and grandson of
Queen Victoria. He had now beconie, by his uncle’s death, Duke of
Saxe-Coburcr-Gotha. See above, pp. 384-5.

1900]

PRINCE CONSORT’S BIRTHDAY

585

[Telegram.] The Emperor of Korea to Queen Victoria.

Seoul, 24i/i Aug. 1900. — I heartily congratulate
your Majesty on the rescue of your Majesty’s Minister
in China by the Allied forces, the news of which has
given me the greatest pleasure. Hiung, Emperor
OE Korea.

Extract from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 261/i Aug. 1900, — This ever dear day
has returned again without my beloved Albert being
with me, who on this day, eighty-one years ago, came
into the world as a blessing to so many, leaving an
imperishable name behind him ! How I remember
the happy day it used to be, and preparing presents
for him, which he would like I I thought much of the
birthday spent at the dear lovely Rosenau in ’45, when
I so enjoyed being there, and where now his poor dear
son, of whom he was so proud, has breathed his last.
Another birthday we spent ten years later at St.
Cloud, in the lovely palace, now gone, when the
Emperor and Empress were so kind to us and dear
Albert was not well. His last birthday of all he spent
at the Viceregal Lodge, and we went on to KiUarney.
All, all is engraven on my mind and in my heart !

[Telegram.] Sir Claude MacDonald to Queen Victoria.

Pekin, 2Qith Aug. 1900. — I beg to express the
gratitude of the besieged for your Majesty’s kind
solicitude and sympathy, and especially to express
my own most grateful thanks for your Majesty’s
gracious telegram of sympathy with Lady MacDonald
and children who are well. MacDonald.

[Telegram.] General Gaselee to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Pekin, 28th Aug. 1900. — ^Her Majesty’s gracious
message was received and communicated to the troops
under my command, on their behalf I tender respectful
thanks , The wounded have been sent back to Tientsin
and Wei-Hai-Wei ; from last reports are doing well.
Health of troops here excellent. To-day Allies formally

586 REASONS FOR DISSOLUTION [chap, svi

marched through the Forbidden City, her Majesty’s
troops were second to none in appearance.

Memorandum by the Marquis of Salisbury.

Foreign Office, 5th Sept. 1900. — Reasons for
submitting that Parliament should be dissolved this
month :

1. The Parliament is in its sixth year ; and pre-
cedents are in favour of a dissolution in the sixth year.

2. It would be almost useless to continue the
Parliament during another Session ; for with the
strong expectation which prevails of a dissolution,
members spend all their time in canvassing their con-
stituents, and cannot be got together for the work of
the House ; whereas, if there is a dissolution this
autumn, they can devote themselves without reserve
to their Parliamentary duties next year.

8. A critical period has been reached in the South
African War ; and also in the Chinese campaign ; and
your Majesty’s Government, to whomsoever it may
be entrusted, will act with much more confidence and
effect if they are fully acquainted with the views of
the electors, and are assured of their support. Europe
is in an uneasy condition ; and, if there should be any
disturbance within the next few months, it will be
highly inconvenient [if] your Majesty should be com-
pelled, by the efflux of time, to hold a general election
in the middle of it.’-

Mr. Chamberlain to Queen Victoria.

Colonial Office, llih Sept. 1900. — Mr. Chamber-
lain presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to submit for your Majesty’s approval, or altera-
tion, a form of communication to the press announcing
your Majesty’s intention with regard to the visit of
their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of York
to Australasia.

A similar di’aft has been submitted to the Prince

1 Lord Salisbury accordingly submitted to the Queen that Parlia-
ment should be dissolved on 25th September.

587

1900] DUKE OF YORK TO VISIT AUSTRALIA

of Wales and. approved by his Royal Highness, but
Mr. Chamberlain has since made some slight altera-
tions which he thinks arc improvements,

[Draft] Memorandum by Queen Victoria,

Sept. 1900. — Her Majesty the Queen has been
graciously pleased to assent, on the recommendation
of the Marquis of Salisbury, to the visit of their Royal
Highnesses, the Duke and Duchess of York, to the
Colonies of Australasia in the spring of next year.

H.R.H. the Duke of York will be commissioned
by her Majesty to open the first Session of the Parlia-
ment of the Australian Commonwealth in her name.

Although the Queen naturally shrinks from parting
with her grandson for so long a period, her Majesty
fully recognises the greatness of the occasion which
will bring her Colonies of Australia into Federal
Union, and desires to give this special proof of her
interest in all that concerns the welfare of her Aus-
tralian subjects. Her Majesty at the same time
wishes to signify her sense of the loyalty and devotion
which have prompted the spontaneous aid so liberally
offered by all the Colonies in the South African War,
and of the splendid gallantry of her Colonial troops.

Her Majesty’s assent to this visit is, of course,
given on the assumption that, at the time fixed for
the Duke of York’s departure, the circumstances are
as generally favourable as at present, and that no
national interests call for his Royal Highness’s
presence in this country.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to the Private Secretary.
[Telegram.]

Wae, Office, 11th Sept. 1900. — May we announce
that her Majesty hopes, if possible, to inspect and
present Colours to representatives of Colonial Forces
who win be brought home at the end of the war ?
The date cannot, of course, yet be fixed with cer-
tainty, but early announcement is considered desir-
able by Mr. Chamberlain and myself. Lansdowne.

588

FLIGHT OF MR. KRUGER

[chap. XVI

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Lansdowne.

12th Sept. 1900. — The Queen finds it difficult to
give any definite reply, but approves of an announce-
ment being made to the effect that she will be glad
to inspect and present colours to Colonial Forces on
their return from South Africa if circumstances permit.

Extract from the Queen's J ournal.

Balmoral, ISth Sept. 1900. — Heard that Kruger
had gone to Lorenzo Marques, intending to embark
for Holland, and taldng a deal of money with him.
But the fighting still continues.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Lord Curzon.

Balmoral, IQth Sept. 1900. — . . . The Queen
Empress quite agrees with the Viceroy that too fre-
quent visits of the Native Princes to England are not
always desirable, but she thinks that this should not
be done in too peremptory a manner. It would hardly
do to refuse them to come for a short time, but not
making a frequent practice of doing so. If the visits
are only for a short time and to pay their respects to
the Empress, the Queen thinks there can be no
objection. . . .

Mr. Goschen to Queen Victoria.

Admiralty, Whitehall, I3th Sept. 1900. — ^Mr.
Goschen with his humble duty gratefully recalling
your Majesty’s gracious kindness to him for so many
years, is anxious that your Majesty should hear from
himseK in the first instance rather than through any
other channel a decision concerning his future at
which he has arrived. He does not propose to seek
re-election when the present Parliament is dissolved.
He has now been more than thirty-seven years in the
House of Commons, a very long spell for anyone who
has taken as active a part in its work, as it has been
his pride and pleasure to have done, and, being in his
seventieth year, he feels that he may fairly claim
relief from its engrossing duties.

1900] MR. GOSCHEN TO RETIRE 589

The last five years, during which he has been
First Lord of the Admiralty, have been a period of
great and continuous strain, and the overwhelming
responsibilities of the post, if he may so describe them,
have contributed to make him desire some rest.

Mr. Goschen sincerely hopes that your Majesty will
not disapprove the course which, though not without
regret, he feels compelled to take, and the necessity
for which has been borne in upon him for some time
past.

Queen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.'^
[Cypher Telegram.]

15th Sept. 1900. — ^Lord Roberts’s telegram No.
1161. The Government incur the gravest responsi-
bility in refusing to carry out at once Lord Roberts’s
recommendations, when what he asks may be the
means of bringing the war to a conclusion and averting
further bloodshed. There should be no difficulty,
since the Portuguese Government have allowed us
free action across their territory.

I cannot too strongly urge upon you the extreme
importance of sanctioning without delay the measures
Lord Roberts proposes to adopt.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Viscount Cross.
[Cypher Telegram.]

15th Sept. 1900. — . . . Following telegram sent
to her Majesty’s Charge d’ Affaires at Lisbon yester-
day. “ I thanked the Portuguese Charge d’ Affaires
to-day for the kind offer of his Government, and
stated we should be much obliged now if the Portu-
guese Government would prevent importation through
Portuguese territory of provisions for the Boer Army.
I reminded him that after its annexation, the Trans-
vaal was to be looked upon as British territory, and
that the flight of President Kruger had made that
fact more evident. With the persons of the President

^ The Queen sent a similar telegram to Lord Lansdowne. For
Lord Roberts’s pronosals, see below, p. 591.

590 COMING CHANGES IN CABINET [chap, xvi

or his friends we have nothing to do. They must not
make war from Portuguese territory as a base, but
they were free to leave it, and their future destination
was no concern of ours.”

Extract from the Queen^s Journal.

Balmoral, 17th Sept. 1900. — ^Drove with Irene and
May to the Birkhall approach, where we took our tea,
which for me consists of arrowroot and milk. I
have not been feeling very well these last days, and
can eat very little. This has been a great trouble for
some time past.

The Marguis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oeeice, 17thSept. 1900. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty gratefully aclmowledges your
Majesty’s kind language and gracious enquiries. His
four weeks of mountain air and comparative rest ^
have done Lord Salisbury an enormous deal of good.

He grieves very much at Mr. Goschen’s decision,
for he is a very valuable colleague. But he did his
best before he went abroad to persuade Mr. Goschen
to defer acting upon his resolution, but quite in vain.
The terms he uses in his letter to your Majesty seem
to intimate that he would accept a peerage if it was
offered to him. If so. Lord Salisbury submits that
there could not be a fitter occasion for the exercise of
your Majesty’s prerogative.

Lord Salisbury is pressing for the expenditure of a
naval and marine force to occupy Komati Port as soon
as possible.

Lord Salisbury has reflected carefully on your
Majesty’s suggestion of putting an Admiral at the
head of the Admiralty. Assuming that he must be a
Member of one blouse or the other of Parliament, it
is not easy to think of a good choice. The Con-
stituencies will not have Admirals of distinction (they
rejected Admiral Tryon), and Admirals are generally
too poor to accept peerages. Hedworth Lambton

* He had pone to Schlucht for his health.

19001 COMPLICATIONS WITH PORTUGUESE 591

might have done, but he is unluckily the other side.
Lord Hood oX Avalon would not probably meet with
your Majesty’s approbation. But Lord Salisbury
would respectfully pray your Majesty to allow him to
postpone the question of appointments until after the
elections have so far advanced that their general drift
may be looked upon as certain.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

ISth Sept. — Lord Lansdowne presents his humble
duty to your Majesty, and has with the Prime
Minister’s concurrence sent to Lord Boberts the fol-
lowing telegram. “ Portuguese Government have
undertaken to prevent the passage of munitions of
war and food and forage to Transvaal. Proposal to
send naval force to hold Komati Port and bridge is
receiving careful consideration, but seizure of rolling
stock from a railway company on Portuguese territory
is impossible. It is also impossible to prevent Presi-
dent Kruger from taking his gold and his papers
with him. All these questions may involve inter-
national difficulties, and require the most cautious
treatment, but we earnestly desire to take all possible
steps to enable you to end war expeditiously.”

It would be impossible in Lord Lansdowne’s opin-
ion to go farther in the direction suggested by Lord
Roberts, who does not realise international complica-^
tions which might be created.

[Copy^ Queen Victoria to Mr. Goschen.

Balmoral Castle, 19th Sept. 1900. — The Queen
thanks Mr. Goschen for his land letter, which she
received a few days ago, and ought to have answered
sooner, but she felt it very painful to do so. She
wishes she could persuade him to reconsider his
decision and to stay on a little longer for her sake and
that of the country. But she fears, from the reasons
for his giving up his arduous office, that they are too
strong and too justifiable for her to hope for this.

592 QUEEN NEEDS REST [chap, xvi

Mr. Goschen will be a most serious public loss.
She canuot sufficiently express this.

The Queen, however, feels that he is fully justified
in wishing for rest. She wishes she could have the
same, even for the shortest period ; for she does need
it, and feels the constant want of it, at eighty-one —
very trying and fatiguing.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Oefice, IdthSeyt. 1900. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
submits that it is now expedient that the Commander-
in- Chief should be named who is to succeed Lord
Wolseley.

The very general expectation is that Lord Roberts
will succeed to that office. His former claims to it
were considerable ; but the popularity he has obtained
and the great services he has rendered during this
war make it almost impossible that any other
nomination should be made. Even if the result of the
pending election should be to introduce other advisers
to your Majesty, Lord Salisbury is confident that they
would be at least as convinced as your Majesty’s
present Cabinet of the high expediency, amounting
almost to necessity, of Lord Roberts being named
to succeed Lord Wolseley.

The question of the period for which he should be
named is a different question. Lord Salisbury hardly
thinks the five years tenure to be wholly satisfactory.
It is the common tenure of inferior appointments, where
the guiding consideration seems to have been, that
everyone, so far as possible, should have a share in the
good things to be divided. But this reason can hardly
apply to the Commander-in-Chief. It is an office
of the first importance, bearing great responsibility,
and much looked up to by public opinion, especially
in troublesome times. The fitness of an officer to
hold it can hardly be judged until he has been tried.
If he is found to be well fitted, it is a great inconven-
ience to lose him, it may be, at an age when he is best

1900] LORD ROBERTS EOR C.-IN-C. 593

fitted to advise and guide his Sovereign. On the other
hand, great disappointments sometimes occur, and
men turn out to be less competent than was expected ;
and it is not for the public service that a man should
be fixed in the office for five years, when his incapacity
has been recognised long before that period ends.
Lord Salisbury is disposed to think that the office
should be in form annual ; it being understood that it
should be renewed from year to year, when the public
service might seem to require it. The convenience of
this arrangement in regard to a man of Lord Roberts’s
age is evident.

Lord Salisbury offers this last suggestion with
much diffidence, and is quite prepared to find that
there are objections to it, which are not evident to him
at this moment. But he submits respectfully, and
with all confidence, the selection of Lord Roberts on
this occasion.

{Telegram.l The Emperor of Japan to Queen Victoria,

Tokio, 21st Sept. 1900. — Beg your Majesty to
accept my sincere thanks for the cordial reception so
kindly given to Prince Kotohito during his stay in
your country. Mutsuhito.

[Telegram.] Queen Victoria to the Emperor of Japan.

Balmoral, 22nd Sept. 1900. — I thank your
Majesty most sincerely for your kind telegram. It
gave me great pleasure to receive Prince Kotohito,
and am very glad that he liked his visit to England.
V. R. I.

Extract from the Queen^s Journal.

Balmoral, 25th Sept. 1900. — ^Bertie and Arthur
came to my room, and we had a long talk about the
proposal to make Lord Roberts Commander-in-Chief
and the many questions it entails.

Mr. Goschen to Queen Victoria.

Admiralty, Whitehall, 25th Sept. 1900. — ^Mr.
Goschen, with hjs humble duty, begs to express his

594 QUEEN’S DISAPPOINTMENT [chap, xvi

deep gratitude for your Majesty’s most kind and
sympathetic letter. He can assure your Majesty that
he would not retire from the House of Commons and
the Admiralty, imless he felt that the time had come
when it was in every respect wise for him to do so.
Your Majesty’s wish so graciously expressed that he
might remain a little longer would otherwise have had
the greatest weight with him. But the moment for
resignation or retirement is always difficult to find,
and often damaging to colleagues, unless it occurs at
such a general break as a dissolution.

Your Majesty speaks pathetically of the desire for
rest often felt by your Majesty. The nation knows
the self-sacrifice and courage with which your Majesty,
in your eighty-first ^ year, discharges unremittingly
the most arduous duties, and endeavours to repay
them with the greatest devotion and affection ever
paid to a Sovereign.

Qiieen Victoria to the Marquis of Salisbury.
[Copy.] [Cypher Telegram.]

27th Sept. 1900. — As I telegraphed on Friday, I
was much surprised at your proposal that Lord
Roberts and not the Duke of Connaught should be
Commander-m-Chief.

I had always hoped the Duke would, after Lord
Wolseley, be appointed to the position [for] which his
zealous and conscientious service and great experience
at home and abroad have fully quahfied him, and in
which he would be received with the general approba-
tion of the Army.

Please remember all that occurred when he was
so anxious to go to South Africa, and you assured me
that his being prevented doing so by the Government
would not injure his chances of succeeding Lord
Wolseley. I also naturally wish to see him at the
head of the Army during my lifetime.

^ Actually eighty-second, as her Majesty had completed her eighty-
first year ou the previous 24th May,

1900] WAS LORD WOLSELEY A SUCCESS? 59S

/

However, as my Ministers think otherwise, I
suppose I cannot object, and I only hope the high
expectations of Lord Roberts will be fulfilled. So
far the substitution of a subject for a member of the
Royal Family has not proved very successful, and I
loiow how anxiously the appointment of my son has
been awaited.

I do not at all like the idea of the appointment
being annual in tenure. This would tend to lower the
office which I and my Army so desire to maintain and
indeed raise. The Army requires in the Commander-
in-Chicf someone in whom they have confidence, and
to whom they can turn and if necessary appeal. These
relations would never exist towards the occupant of
so shaky a position.

On the whole, I think the appointment should be
made without reference to time, on the understanding
that it may be extended if public exigencies so
demand. But in thus yielding to the representations
of my Ministers I must insist that you undertake that
one of the first points in the Army Reform shall be
a reconsideration and Amendment of the Order in
Coimcil of 1895, with a view of increasing the power
and responsibility of the Commander-in-Chief, who
is now virtually a cypher.

{Draft.]

{Same da?/.] — The Queen is anxious to know
whether the slight changes which Lord Salisbury
may have to recommend in the Cabinet will affect
the War Office, or does Lord Lansdowne remain
there ?

She would ask Lord Salisbury to suggest that Lord
Wolseley be called upon to report confidentially upon
his experiences as Coramander-in- Chief ; to point out
what seem to him defects in the machinery, and suggest
the remedies.

Lord Salisbury has, himself, frequently agreed
with the Queen how badly the Commander-in-Chief
and the War Office worked together.

TTT *^0

596

DUKE OF CONNAUGHT’S CLAIMS [chap, xvi

Field-Marshal Count Waldersee^ to Queen Victoria.
[Telegram.]

Taku, 27th Sept. 1900. — I beg to be allowed
respectfully to report to your Majesty that I arrived
at Taku to-day. Field -Marshal Count Waldersee.

[Copy.] The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

The Foreign Office, 2Sth Sept. 1900. — Lord
Salisbury with his humble duty respectfully thanks
your Majesty for your cypher of yesterday. He
laments very much if he has unintentionally misled
your Majesty with respect to the possibility under
present circumstances of nominating H.R.H, the
Duke of Connaught to the Commandership-in-Chief
instead of Lord Roberts. He certainly never in-
tended to give your Majesty the impression that that
would be a practicable measure.

The great services of Lord Roberts, his age, and
above all the great enthusiasm which this year’s war
has gathered round his name, would have made it
impossible to procure the assent of any Cabinet to
the appointment of H.R.H, in place of him.

The moment would be singularly inappropriate,
because reforms in our military system are being
generally urged in a very democratic spirit ; and all
the unpopularity which the War Office and many
officers of the Army have incurred has exasperated
that democratic rancour to a singular degree.

The Duke, if he took office at this juncture, would
concentrate this feeling upon himself, and his useful-
ness and future fame would be seriously compromised.
It is not likely that Lord Roberts will hold it long, and
there is now no other officer who can compete with
the claims of H.R.H. . . .

[Copy^ Queen Victoria to Lord Roberts.

Balmoral Castle, 28th Sept. 1900, — I am very
grateful for your last interesting letter of the 21st

‘ Who had been placed in command of the whole international
force in China, but had not got out there till some weeks after the
T “cmtionf h d he‘“n rph'pved.

1900] LORD LANSDOWNE TO LEAVE WAR OFFICE S97

August, and am glad to hear how successful ■ the
various Generals have been ; but it is painful to see
how this guerilla warfare still continues, ... V. R. I.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.
[Cypher Telegram.]

29ih Sept. (1900). — ^Humble duty. Your Majesty’s
letter. A short time ago Lord Lansdowne informed
me that it was not his intention to remain in the War
Office after the General Election. I begged him to
let matter rest till then, that any requisite arrangement
might be dealt with at once.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War Office, 29 th September 1900,

My dear Bigge, — . . . I confess that I am vexed
at the manner in which the question of Lord Roberts’s
appointment has come before her Majesty. The Prime
Minister I know did not like to intrude upon her after
the Duke of Coburg’s death, and I fear that in waiting
for the psychological moment he waited too long. It
is greatly to the Duke of Connaught’s credit that he
should have behaved as he has, and helped us at a
really difficult conjuncture. . . . Lansdowne.

Queen Victoria to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Balmoral Castle, SOth Sept. 1900. — Sir A. Bigge
will have seen by the copy or substance of the cypher
she received yesterday evening that Lord Lansdowne
has actually asked to retire. She thinks this might
be a good thing if he can get a good successor. But
for Army and Navy we must get the very best, and to be
both changed at the same time is a very serious
matter.

Lord Roberts has already been offered the office of
Commander-in-Chief. It is so important to consider
very carefuUy these two first-named appointments. It
is most unfortunate that theQueen cannot discuss these
matters with Lord Salisbury personally. The only
other course she can think of is to see Mr. Balfour, or

598 QUEEN AND NEW APPOINTMENTS [chap, xvi

for Sir A. Bigge to see him, so as to impress upon him
the necessity of the Queen’s being thoroughly con-
sulted, else the correspondence would be endless.

From the 2nd to the 8th there would be room for
Mr. Balfour, and Lord Balfour of Burleigh could even
[be] put off. The Queen wishes Sir A. Bigge would
make any suggestions. What she is so anxious to
prevent is Lord Salisbury’s going too far with any
appointment so that she could not make any objec-
tions.

The Queen writes in such a hurry that she fears
Sir Arthur may have difficulty in reading it.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoral, 1st Oct. 1900. — ^Dictated to Lenchen.
Saw Lord James before dinner and talked over various
things.^ He is much pleased with the elections.

The King of Portugal to Queen Victoria.
[Telegramme.]

Cascaes, 2 Oct. 1900. — ^La revue des soldats de
la Reine a Komati Poort en mon honneur et le tele-
gramme de Lord Roberts au nom de I’armee de
I’Afrique du Sud m’ont vivement touche. J’en
remercie votre Majeste du fond de raon coeur en les
considerant comme une nouvelle preuve de la vieille

^ Lord James was greatly struck with the difference in the Queen
since he had last seen her in May. He wrote : “I was in attendance
at Balmoral in May and October 1900. In May the Queen was quite
as of old — ^very cheerful, and enjoying any anecdote or smart conversa-
tion according to her nature. The war engaged her mind almost
entirely. She felt that there had been many mistakes made in South
Africa, but she deprecated any enquiries that should make our defects
apparent to the world. . . . Thus I found, and thus I left the Queen
in good health and spirits in May 1900. When I returned in October
I foimd that the greatest change had taken place. The Queen had
lost much flesh, and had shrunk so as to appear about one-half of the
person she had been. Her spirits, too, had apparently left her. . . .
The Queen herself told me that she felt very weak and weary, but hoped
to recuperate at Cowes [? Osborne]. She ascribed her weakness to her
visit to Ireland in the summer [? spring], ‘ It was very hard and trying
work,’ she said. ‘ I had a great deal to get through, and I was so
anxious that everything should pass off well. I am afraid it was too
much for me.’ ” — ^Lord Askwith’s Lord James of Hereford, pp. 261-262.

1900] MR. BALFOUR’S VIEWS 599

et traditionnelle alliance entre nos deux pays. Je
vous baise la main. Carlos.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 3rd Oct. (1900), — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty respectfully submits that he
has seen Lord Lansdowne, and has spoken to him with
respect to your Majesty’s cypher. Lord Lansdowne
is averse to the idea of a Military Secretary for War
instead of as heretofore a Civil one. Lord Salisbury
does not hold absolutely to that view, though the
entire novelty of the selection might provoke much
criticism. But he believes that a more formidable
difficulty would be found in Lord Roberts’s refusal to
accept it. He has always, and only the other day
with much emphasis, expressed his dislike to being in
any way mixed up with English parties. But Lord
Salisbury quite feels the difficulty of finding a good
civilian Secretary for War, which now confronts your
Majesty, He hopes, however, that the question of
office may be deferred till after the County Elections.

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

Dunbar, 4ith Oct. 1900. — Sir Arthur Bigge . . .
has just returned from Edinburgh, which was in the
full turmoil of a General Election, where he met by
appointment Mr, Balfour, and with him talked over
the points about which your Majesty is anxious.

Mr. Balfour’s views are : that, until the results of
the Elections are generally determined, all other
public business is practically at a standstill ; and
therefore he can understand that Lord Salisbury is
unable to now inform your Majesty what it is proposed
to do regarding the Admiralty and War Office,
Personally Mr. Balfour knows nothing as to Lord
Salisbury’s intentions, as they have held no communi-
cations since the latter went abroad. He has not
heard of the probable change at the War Office. All
he knew was that Mr. Goschen would retire, and that
at the Treasury it was rumoured that Sir M. Hicks
Beach would not continue to serve as Chancellor of

600 THE GENERAL ELECTION [chap, xvi

the Exchequer. He ventured to think that Lord
Salisbury could not undertake that the Order in
Council of 1895 should be altered, nor that the
Secretary-of-State could deal with the question of
the Guards going to Gibraltar, or that of an increase
in the salary of the Commander-in- Chief until,
granting that the Government is restored to power,
the Cabinet has considered and to some extent agreed
upon the general lines of their policy of Army Reform,
which he takes for granted will be the primary and
absorbing work of the new Parliament.

Apparently Mr. Balfour, naturally, was very
reluctant to in any way criticise the Prime Minister,
but he thought the latter should write explaining that
for the present it will be impossible to take action
upon the various matters to which your Majesty has
referred, and to assure your Majesty that no appoint-
ments in the Government will be formally submitted
until your Majesty’s pleasure has been previously
taken upon the proposals. . . .

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Foreign Orfice, Mh October 1900.

My dear Sir Arthur, — If the Queen wishes it, I
will gladly come to Balmoral after the Elections ; but
I am afraid it will excite some attention, as I have not
been there often. I can see you at any time after the
Elections,

If it had not been for Goschen insisting on giving
up immediately, it would have been easy to keep all
these offices open till the Queen came back to Windsor,
but this will hardly be practicable.

I spoke very earnestly to Lord Lansdowne about
the Guards going to Gibraltar, and I hope he has
stopped any action till the new C.-in-C. comes home.
Yours very truly, Salisbury.

Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Pretoria, Uh October 1900.

Madam, — I had the great honour to receive by
the last mail your Majesty’s gracious letter of the 7th

’i^ield-^larshal &arl ^oher-h,

ffrom a sketch, USzdy £keo ffleieken.

60]

1900] LORD ROBERTS ON THE SITUATION

September, for which I beg to tender my most re-
spectful thanks.

On the very day the letter reached me I heard from
Lord Lansdowne that your Majesty had been graci-
ously pleased to select me for the high and important
position of Commander-in-Chief. I need not say how
proud and grateful I am for this mark of your Majesty’s
appreciation of my services. I earnestly trust I may
be able to carry out the difficult duties connected with
the office to your Majesty’s satisfaction and to the
benefit of the Army.

I have not been able yet to reply to that part of
Lord Lansdowne’s telegram in which he asked when
I thought I could take up the appointment, but I
trust it will not be very long before I can fix a date.
Troubles continue in different places, and the ubi-
quitous General De Wet is still at large, but there are
signs that the burghers are getting tired of the war, and
beginning to realise what a frightful calamity it is for
their country.

In many parts of the Orange River Colony and
the Transvaal the distress amongst the women and
children must be very great. I pointed this out to
Commandant-General Botha just a month ago in a
letter, a copy of which I enclose for your Majesty’s
perusal.

I am to-day sending copies of it to ex-President
Steyn and General De Wet by the hand of an influen-
tial burgher, who surrendered at Barberton, and
offered his services in view to explaining the hope-
lessness of the situation to the Boer leaders. If Mr.
van der Post’s mission is successful it will be very
satisfactory; under any circumstances I trust that
affairs will have been settled sufficiently to admit of
my leaving South Africa early in November. The
majority of the Transvaalers are anxious to give in,
but they think they are in honour bound to carry on
the war so long as any of the Orange Free Staters
hold out.

The City Imperial Volunteers left this yesterday

602

SIR R. BULLER COMING HOME [chap, xvi

en route for London, looking thoroughly efficient and
workmanlike. It is really wonderful the way in
which they have adapted themselves to the rough life
of a soldier in the field. They have had to draw their
own water, cut their own wood, and cook their own
food, often under considerable difficulties, but no one
has ever heard a word of complaint from them.
The country owes the C.I.V. a deep debt of gratitude,
if only for showing what admirable material for our
Army we possess in the Volunteer Force.

It will I think gratify your Majesty to know that
in a telegram I received from New Zealand con-
gratulating me in my new appointment, the Premier,
Mr. Seddon, says : “ Our earnest desire is that ere
long you may be not only Commander-in- Chief of the
British Army, but also of all military forces of the
Empire.” A grand feeling of loyalty pervades the
Colonials, and they certainly make most excellent
soldiers.

With my most respectful duty, I am. Madam, your
Majesty’s most obedient humble servant, Robeets.

Sir Redvers Buller to Queen Victoria.

Lydenbeeg, Transvaal, 5tk Oct. 1900. — Sir
Redvers Buller presents his humble duty to the Queen
Empress, and has to thank her Majesty for a most
gracious letter of the 24th August.

Sir Redvers has for the last months been employed
in pursuing the remnants of the Boer Army into the
fastnesses of the Drakensberg. It has been interest-
ing work, and as Sir Redvers hopes of some value, as
it has proved to the Dutch that British troops can
follow them into fastnesses which they had believed
to be impenetrable. It is certainly a dreadful country
to get about in, and we have brought guns and
wagons down and up places that we would have
believed to be impossible, but everything is possible
to willing men, and the troops have worked splen-
didly. . . .

Yesterday was a joyful day for Sir Redvers, as he

603

1900] THE STRAIN ON THE QUEEN

received orders from Lord Roberts to go to Natal,
close up the papers of the Natal Field Force, and return
to England. While really anxious to remain out here
while there is anything to do, he cannot say that he
regrets going home. His only wish is that after all
this long time peace is not more assured than it is.
There will always be a remnant of irreconcilables who
will refuse to accept English rule. But these will not
be many ; with them at present are some 4,000 to 5,000
rascals who are remaining in the field for what they
can plunder, and whom a more connected and active
policy would have driven ere this into submission.
But no doubt the difficulties in this vast country
have been enormous, and in saying this Sir Redvers
does not wish to imply that such a policy would have
been possible ; he only regrets that it has not apparently
been possible, and he shudders to think of how great
the strain of this prolonged war, of the crisis in China,
and of the death of H.R.H. the Duke of Coburg
coming all together must have been upon the Queen
Empress, He trusts that her Majesty is in good
health. With his humble duty, Sir Redvers Buller
has the honour to remain, her Majesty’s devoted
servant.

Queen Victoria to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Balmoral Castle, Gth Oct. 1900. — The Queen has
received both Sir Arthur Bigge’s letter and telegram.
This interview with Mr. Balfour seems to have been
of little use, as he evidently knows nothing. . . .
Lord Salisbury’s two last letters say more than usual.
The Order in Council must be reviewed, and that must
be one of their first works. The Queen has written
a confidential strong letter to Lord Roberts on his
duties.

The Elections are wonderfully good.

Perhaps Sir Arthur could see [Lord] Salisbury
before coming here at the end of next week. . . .

The Duke of Connaught never expected or wished
to be made Commander-in-Chief now, and wishes Lord
Roberts to do all that is so much required.

604 LORD SALISBURY AND SIR A. BIGGE [chai?. xvi

Memorandum by Sir Arthur Bigge.

London, 13th Oct. 1900. — Sir Arthur Bigge with
his humble duty respectfully begs to submit :

He has just left Lord Salisbury, whom he was glad
to find looking very well and in good spirits.

The Prime Minister began by saying that he did
not know whether he was to assume that it was your
Majesty’s pleasure that he should continue at the
head of the Government ! to which Sir Arthur Bigge
ventured to reply that it would not be necessary to
trouble your Majesty for any commands on that point.
But Lord Salisbury then continued, perhaps in a more
serious tone, to touch upon the question of his retain-
ing the control of both the Premiership and the Foreign
Office. He said that his doctors had advocated his
having less work, and that “ outside opinion ” rather
favours a separation of the two offices. But, as he
feels that he has sufficient strength to go on with both,
“ he is ready to do whatever is most agreeable to the
Queen and is in her judgment most beneficial to the
public service.” In the event of his giving up the
Foreign Office, Lord Lansdowne is the only possible
successor. Sir Arthur Bigge’s impression was that
Lord Salisbury would like to remain at the Foreign
Office, though he added that if he relinquished it,
there would be a place available for Lord Lansdowne.

The next question was the Admiralty, and here
there was, Lord Salisbury said, a little difficulty.
Mr. Gerald Balfour for one reason or another had not
managed the Irish quite satisfactorily ; and, among
other results, he was afraid the loss of a Unionist seat
(Mr. Plunket’s) in Dublin must be more or less at-
tributed to the Chief Secretary’s action. Therefore
a change was necessary, and obviously the post of
Secretary for Scotland was that to which Mr. Balfour
would be most suited. This would necessitate moving
Lord Balfour of Burleigh, and Lord Salisbury suggests
him as First Lord of the Admiralty. He is a strong man,
a good administrator, and “does not make mistakes,”

606

1900] MR. BRODRICK FOR WAR OFFICE

Lord Salisbury then proceeded — not without Sir
Arthur detecting a sigh ! — ^to the War Office. Lord
Roberts had absolutely refused to be Secretary of
State, otherwise Lord Salisbury would have been pre-
pared to submit his name to your Majesty ; but he
was not surprised at this refusal on the part of an
old and distinguished soldier to now adopt a political
career. He therefore had decided to propose Mr. St.
John Brodrick. . . . He considers Mr. Brodrick as very
efficient and able, knowing the War Office intimately ;
has a great position in the House of Commons, and has,
while worldng under Lord Salisbury’s own eye at the
Foreign Office, given ample proof of general ability
and capacity.

But in now making these proposals Lord Salisbury
humbly does so in order that your Majesty may well
consider them ; and he will not expect any decision
until there has been time for your Majesty to do so.
There is, he says, no hurry.

With regard to Sir Michael Hicks Beach, he has
said nothing to Lord Salisbury, but did tell Mr. Bal-
four of his wish to give up the post of Chancellor to the
Exchequer. . . .

Queen Emma to Queen Victoria.

Hetloo, IQth Oct. 1900. — Sure of your affection-
ate sympathy I am anxious to inform you [of] the
engagement of my daughter to the Duke Henry of
Mecldenburg-Schwerin. You will be glad to hear that
my daughter is very happy. Emma.

\Copy.'\ Mr. Akers Douglas to Mr. Balfour.

Confidential. Balmobal Castle, l&th October 1900.

My dear Arthur, — ^The Queen sent for me
yesterday afternoon, and told me she had heard from
Bigge the chief features of Lord Salisbury’s proposals
for the reconstruction of the Government, and desired
me to telegraph to Lord Salisbury to say that, while
she was anxious not to trouble him to come here, she
wished to discuss with him the proposed changes.

606 LORD SALISBURY AND FOREIGN OFFICE [chap, xvi

Further, she wished to loiow if the matter was urgent,
or could wait until her return to Windsor on 8th
November.

The Queen, as far as I can gather, is now quite
prepared to approve, but is in some difficulty re
Foreign Office, and seems to think she has been placed
in a very awkward position. Bigge has told her that
Lord Salisbury, while suggesting the change at the
Foreign Office, would be prepared to stay on if the
Queen wished him to do so. Thus the Queen thinks
that the responsibility of asking Lord Salisbury to
give up the Foreign Office will rest on her, and she
shrinks from having to ask him to go. Her own feelings
evidently are, that Lord Salisbury cannot without
injury to his health undertake again the double office,
and should therefore be relieved of the Foreign Office.
She has no objection I think to Lansdowne at Foreign
Office, though she had rather thought of Pauncefote ;
and the proposed change is indeed more attractive to
her by thought of Cranborne ^ as Under-Secretary. . . .
Yours sincerely, A. Akers Douglas.

Mr. Balfour to Mr. Akers Douglas.

[ Copy .^ WhittingtiajVus, Pbestonkikk, I8th October 1900.

My dear Douglas, — do very earnestly hope that
the Queen will not insist upon Lord Salisbury keeping
hoik offices. It requires no doctor to convince his
family that the work, whenever it gets really serious,
is too much for him. I have twice had to take the
Foreign Office, and three times, if I remember rightly,
he has been obhged to go abroad at rather critical
moments in our national affairs. He is over seventy,
and not a specially strong man. If the Queen desires
(as I am sure she does) to keep him as Prime Minister,
I feel sure she would be well-advised not to insist on
his being also Foreign Minister.

Lord James may be right in thinking that public
opinion on the Continent would view with dismay Lord
Salisbury’s retirement from office. ... I do not believe
1 The present Marquis of Salisbury.

1900] THE HEALTH OF WINDSOR 607

they would be the least alarmed at an arrangement
which left Lord Salisbury Prime Minister and put the
conduct of Foreign Office details into the hands of
Lord Lansdowne. Yours very sincerely, Arthur
James Balfour J

Sir Arthur Bigge to Queen Victoria.

18th Oct. 1900. — Sir Arthur Bigge humbly begs to
submit to your Majesty a Report made by' order of
the Local Government Board upon the sanitary
condition of Windsor. It reveals a disgraceful state
of things regarding the housing of the poor, for which
it is impossible to acquit the Town Council of in-
difference and lukewarmness.

In these days of high civilisation it seems shameful
that people should be living in places and surroundings
such as these existing within almost a stone’s throw
of your Majesty’s home. The fact that some of the
worst of these hovels are called “ Victoria ” Cottages is
almost an insult to your Majesty,

Sir A, Bigge has referred to Mr, Chaplin, who
thinks that, although the Town Council are now
bestirring themselves, considerable benefit might
arise were a letter written stating that your Majesty
would be glad to know what steps were being taken to
remedy the existing state of affairs.

The Report is very long, but Sir A. Bigge has
marked the more important passages.

Endorsed : —

The Queen has read the marked passages with
horror, and her name should certainly be used to
ensure this disgraceful state of things being remedied,

{Copy.l Sir Arthur Bigge to the Mayor of Windsor.

Balmobal Castle, 19//i October 1900.

Dear Mu. Mayor, — ^The Report of the Local
Government Board Inspector of 20th February upon

‘ Mr. Akers Douglas, in replying from Balmoral next day, wrote :
“ Your letter came just at the right moment ; was exactly what was
wanted, and I think has quite settled the matter.”

608 MAYOR’S EXCUSES [chap, xvi

the sanitary condition of Windsor has been laid before
the Queen.

Her Majesty would be greatly interested to know
what steps are being taken to remedy the state of
things which, from the Report, appear to exist in the
Borough.

Will you kindly give me any information available
on this matter ; for I feel certain that you can under-
stand how pained and concerned the Queen has been
to think of the wretched insanitary condition in which
some of the inhabitants of Windsor have been per-
mitted to live within but a stone’s throw of the
Castle. Believe me, yours very faithfully, Arthur
Bigge.

The Mayor of Windsor to Sir Arthur Bigge.

The GmiBHAEE, Wihesob,, 2061 October 1900.

Sir Arthur, — I hasten to answer your letter
received this evening.

It was my intention to have called upon you at
Winchester Tower, and give some few particulars as
to the various garbled statements appearing in the
newspapers as to the condition of Windsor, but found
you had returned to Balmoral.

Herewith, I beg to forward a few memos., hurriedly
written, which it is hoped may be somewhat reassuring
to her Majesty the Queen. The blame for any laxity
rests apparently with those Members of the Council
who form the Health and Drainage Committee, and
two of the oflEicials. Measures will, however, be now
promptly taken to remedy the evils wherever they
may exist.

I venture to suggest that these reports would not
have been spread broadcast to such an extent, had
Dr. Bulstrode’s statements been received six months
ago and not within a fortnight or so of the Windsor
Municipal Election. I have the honour to remain,
Sir Arthur, your obedient servant, A. T. Barber,
Mayor.

1900] KING LEOPOLD AND SIPIDO 609

[Copy.] King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria.

Pams, 19 Octobie 1900.

Ma CniiiiE CousiNE, — ^Je profite du courrier
Anglais pour vous adresser ci-joint un. rapport sur
I’aHaire Sipido. Ce rapport je I’ai dicte afin d’en
rendre la lecture plus facile.

C’est a dessein que je n’avais pas jusqu’ici ecrit a
Bertie ; I’affaire n’^tait pas finie. II me repugnait
d’^crire a Bertie une lettre pour I’assurer de ma bonne
volonte ! C’etait trop peu. Je voulais laisser la
parole aux faits, et ne rien negliger pour les rendre, les
circonstances etant donnees, aussi satisfaisants que
possible. Si cependant vous me faites savoir que
vous desirez que j’ecrive a Bertie, je me conformerais
naturellement a vos ordres.

Je me permets, chere Cousine, de vous prier, dans
I’interet de la cause, de regarder mon rapport comme
absolument confidentiel. Si Sipido apprenait mes
efforts je ne doute pas qu’il ne se sauve de suite en
Amerique, od il serait a peu pres impossible de le
cueillir.

Profondement affligd de la maladie de Vicky,
daignez agreer tons les voeux que nous tous formons
pour elle.

Je suis pour la vie, chere Cousine, votre tout
dev one cousin, Leopold.

Queen Victoria to the Prince of Wales.

Balmoral Castle, 22nri October 1900.

Dearest Bertie, — I received this letter yester-
day, and send it as it is. I wrote to Leopold that we
were rather shocked at Sipido’s escape’- and that
you were bien blesse that he had not written a word,
and this is the answer. . . . Ever your devoted Mama,
V. R. I.

The Marquis of Lansdowne to Queen Victoria.

War Office, 23rd Oct. 1900. — Lord Lansdowne
presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he has

^ See above, p. 523. Sipido was found not guilty by a Brussels jury.

610 THE AUSTRALIAN COMMONWEALTH [chap, xvi

the honour to ask for an expression of your Majesty’s
pleasure with regard to a proposal that a representa-
tive contingent of Imperial troops should be sent to
Australia in order to take part in the ceremonial
connected with the inauguration of the Australian
Commonwealth on 1st January 1901,

Some time has been spent in preliminary discus-
sions between the different departments concerned,
and it was not until yesterday that the matter became
ripe for submission to your Majesty. Lord Lansdowne
deeply regrets that your Majesty should have been
prematurely troubled with regard to it. On the
other hand, there was so little time to spare that the
military authorities are perhaps to be excused for
having pressed on with their preparations subject
to your Majesty’s final sanction.

It is proposed that the strength of the Force should
in round figures be about 1,000, that it should be
thoroughly representative of all types of your
Majesty’s troops, and that it shall include a small
number (about 100 altogether) of Yeomanry, Militia,
and Volunteers. The Auxiliary Forces, which have
acquitted themselves so well during the war, will be
disappointed if they are left without representation
in such a body of soldiers.

It is also hoped that your Majesty wiU allow a
few men of the Household Cavalry and of the Foot
Guards to form part of the Force. In the opinion
of the Commander-in-Chief the absence of these would
greatly detract from the interest which will attach to
this very remarkable Force.

Lord Lansdowne encloses with this letter a detailed
statement of its proposed composition, and hopes to
be favoured with your Majesty’s commands with a view
to an authoritative announcement upon the subject.

Queen Victoria to Sir Arthur Bigge.

‘2,7th Oct. 1900.- — ^Will Sir Arthur answer Lord
Lansdowne and say the Queen consents but re-
luctantly, and trusts this sort of thing will not happen.

611

1900] CHANGES IN THE CABINET

H.M. must be informed at once of any important
arrangement for her troops.

{Copy.'] Memorandum by Queen Victoria.

23rd Oct. 1900. — Saw Lord Salisbury ; had a great
deal of discussion on all the various changes in the
Cabinet. The first, a most important one, is that he
himself feels he ought not to continue to hold the two
offices, as it is too much for his health. Contrary to
my expectation, he was quite ready to propose and
do this. The work was not too much for him when
there was no very important political crisis ; but, if
that came, he could not undertake it. He intended
to take the Privy Seal himself, as he must have an
office. This would entail the retirement of Lord
Cross, which we both regretted, but felt would be well,
as he had aged a good deal, and didn’t like his present
office.

Lord Salisbury thought the only person fit to take
the Foreign Seals was Lord Lansdowne ; but I said
it must be on the strict understanding that he must be
enthely under his personal supervision, which used
always to be the case with the Prime Minister, and
that no telegram or despatch should be sent without
first being submitted to him.

Then came the two very important offices of the
Admiralty and War Office. Lord Salisbury . . .
suggested that his son-in-law, Lord Selborne, should
be appointed [to the Admiralty], who is very capable,
and has been lately Under-Secretary of State for
the Colonies. I assented to this. As for the War
Office, he felt, taking it altogether, that Mr. Brodrick
would be the best person. He thought very well of
him since he had had him as Under-Secretary for
Foreign Affairs ; he was a good speaker and worker,
and not connected with any objectionable measures.
. . . Lord Salisbury thought the Duke of Bedford
would be a good Under-Secretary for War, as he would
speak for the Army in the House of Lords, and is
said to be very able.

612

NEW CABINET MINISTERS [oiiap. xvi

It was intended that Sir Matthew White Ridley
should retire. . . . Lord Salisbury said it was very
painful to have to tell his colleagues to retire. Mr.
Ritchie should succeed Sir Matthew Ridley : he is
a very good man of business and energetic. Lord
Salisbury also proposed that Lord Cranborne, his
son, should be XJnder-Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
This will be a very good thing, as it will show the
same policy is to be pursued. . . .

Mr. Wyndham, who I should have preferred at the
War Office, but who is too young, is to be Secretary
for Ireland with a seat in the Cabinet. Speaking of
[Vice-Royalty of] Ireland, which is vacant, Lord Salis-
bury thought Lord Dudley would do very well there.^

\Copy,'\ Sir Arthur Bigge to the Mayor of Windsor.
Private, Balmobai. Castle, %5ih October 1900.

Dear Mr. Mayor, — I have to thank you for so
promptly replying to my letter respecting Dr. Bul-
strode’s report. The particulars noted in your
memorandum have been duly conveyed to the Queen,
and her Majesty is gratified to learn that measures
will be at once taken to remedy the evils wherever
they may exist.

I am very sorry that it was not possible for me to
have met you and personally discussed the matter,
especially as by the time H.M. returns to Windsor
you will, I conclude, be no longer Mayor. It is with
the question of housing of the poor that the Queen is

' The Queen asked Sir Arthur Bigge to telegraph to the Prinee of
Wales the principal changes. In the final arrangements Mr. Goschen
and Sir Matthew Ridley (who were created Viscounts), Lord Cross, and
Mr. Chaplin retired ftom the Cabinet, and Lord Salisbury took the
Privy Seal instead of the Foreign Office, The new appointments in
the Cabinet were : Home Secretary, Mr. Ritchie ; Foreign Secretary,
Lord Lansdowne ; War Secretary, Mr. Brodrick ; Admiralty, Lord
Selborne ; Board of Trade, Mr. Gerald Balfour ; Local Government
Board, Mr. Long ; Board of Agriculture, Mr. Hanbury ; Postmaster-
General, Lord Londonderry. In other respects the Cabinet was still
constructed as it appears on p. 6. As Lord Cadogan remained Lord-
Lieutenant of Ireland in the Cabinet, Mr. Wyndham, the new Chief
Secretary, was outside. The Duke of Bedford refused the Under-
Secretaryship for Wax.

1900] COTTAGES IN WINDSOR '613

most concerned. If Dr. Bulstrode realised a dis-
tinctly “ pathetic side ” to the inspection of Victoria
Cottages, there seems, in my humble opinion, some-
thing still more sad, that what evidently are the
worst class of cottages in the Borough should bear
H.M.’s name. Surely a rent of 6s. 6d. a week for a
cottage (of course, I do not know how many rooms)
in which “ for two years the rain has fallen on to the
bed ; the floor falling in, etc., and no repairs carried
out,” vide page 12 of Report, is exorbitant and
extortionate : River Street also seems to disclose
horrors which one had hoped had been abolished.
But it certainly must make the task of effecting re-
forms somewhat hopeless if the Corporation fail to
obtain one conviction out of practically sixty sum-
monses against the owner of Victoria Cottages. The
Queen asked when these latter were built. Yours
very faithfully, Arthur Bigge.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Balmoral, QJth Oct. 1900. — Intended going out
early in the afternoon, when a telegram came about
dear Christie, which upset us all very much. Had
had a very good one from Lenchen in the morning,
but this latest one said he was worse, though the
temperature was not high, and that he had congestion
of both lungs. Was much distressed.

29th Oct . — Saw Dr. Bankart after breakfast, who
received late last night the news from the doctor that
dear Christie had been playing cricket on the 9th,
took to his bed on the 10th for malarial fever, and a
week ago enteric supervened. At first he seemed to
go on quite well, when last week the lungs became
attacked, but the temperature was not very high ; still,
the case was very serious. Went out with Evelyn
M[oore], and on coming home Beatrice came and told
me Thora begged not to come to luncheon, as a telegram
had come saying dear Christie was much worse. This
I own took away all hope from me. The Maharajah
of Kapurthala lunched with us, having come on

614 DEATH OE PRINCE CHRISTIAN VICTOR [chap, xvi

purpose to see me before bis return to India. Besides
ourselves and the children, Edith L[ytton], Marie
M[allet], Lord Clanwilliam, and Sir A. Bigge lunched.
The Maharajah, was, as usual, very agreeable. Took
leave of him directly afterwards, and his gentleman
was presented.

Almost directly after I went upstairs Thora came
in, and in a faltering voice said, “ He is gone.” I
could not believe it, it seemed too dreadful and heart-
breaking, this dear, excellent, gallant boy, beloved by
all, such a good, as well as a brave and capable officer,
gone ! To think that he had gone through the
Indian campaign, Ashanti (where our beloved Liko
was taken), the Soudan (going down in his ship), and
now again in South Africa, had passed through endless
hardships and dangers without being iU, or getting a
scratch, to fall a victim to this horrid fever, just on
the eve of his return home ; oh ! it is really too piteous.
It brings back so vividly to my mind dear Liko’s loss,
dying of African fever, away from his dear ones. I
am miserable in thinking of poor dear Lenchen, who
so worshipped this son, and poor Thora, so dear, so
courageous, trying to comfort me by saying so sweetly
she knew “ he was happy.” All of us busy sending
telegrams. Again and again the terrible thought of
this fresh blow and irreparable loss brought tears to
my eyes. Poor dear Lenchen, poor Christian, who is
abroad, and loved this son so dearly ! A wet afternoon,
and felt too upset to go out. Had a quiet little dinner
d trois. Poor Thora wonderfully calm and resigned.

The Marquis of Lamdowne to Queen Victoria.

Lansdowne House, 28th Oct. 1900. — Lord Lans-
downe presents his humble duty to the Queen, and he
desires to express the deep pain with which he has
learned the loss sustained by your Majesty in the
death of H.H. Prince Christian Victor,

Lord. Lansdowne had hoped that the end of the
war, which cannot now be far off, would bring to your
Majesty relief from most of the cares and anxieties

1900] LORD LANSDOWNE FOR FOREIGN OFFICE 615

which must have weighed so heavily upon you during
the last few months. He realises the greatness of
the sorrow which this sad event will bring to your
Majesty and to the Royal House. He grieves for
your Majesty’s loss ; he also laments the death of a
young officer of whose character and qualities he had,
both in India and at home, some opportunities of
forming a judgment, and of whom it may truly be
said that he well deserved the general respect and
affection which was felt for him by all with whom he
was brought into contact, whether they were his
comrades or his seniors.

Lord Lansdowne has been made aware by the
Prime Minister that your Majesty has been pleased
to think of him for the Foreign Office. He is most
grateful for this mark of your Majesty’s confidence.
He values it the more, because he does not disguise
from himself that as Secretary of State for War he
must often have seemed to your Majesty to fall short
of your Majesty’s expectations, but he knows that
your Majesty has understood the difficulties with
which he has had to contend, and has given him
credit for a desire to do what was right. He will
always look back with a sense of the utmost gratitude
to the support which your Majesty has extended to
him during the last five years.

He is fully aware that the task which lies before
him is not an easy one, and he earnestly trusts that
he may be able to perform it in a manner which may
obtain your Majesty’s gracious approval. He is glad
to think that, under the new distribution of offices,
he can look forward to the wise guidance of the Prime
Minister, who will now have a larger command of
leisure at his disposal, and who will no doubt continue
to take a close personal interest in the affairs of the
department which he has so long and so successfully
directed.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Balmoral, 1st Nov. 1900. — This morning the
beloved boy was to be laid to rest, with the soldiers he

616 LORD ROBERTS AND POST OF C.-IN-C. [chap, xvi

loved so well, and there were to be services at St,
George’s Chapel and at the Chapel Royal. We went
at twelve to the church here, where there was a simple
touching service, much the same as we had for dear
Affie at Osborne. I was much moved. A great
number of people were present, all the neighbours,
and my own people, who show the greatest feeling.
The sun was shining brightly, which was very pleasant,
and made it less gloomy, but my tears flowed again
and again. It does seem so dreadful. Still terribly
busy answering telegrams.

Greatly shocked to hear that Lord Roberts’s eldest
daughter, his great favourite and help, is ill with enteric
at Johannesburg, and that he begged to put off his
departure for a few weeks, as she could not be moved.
A ladies dinner. When I got up to my room the
anxiously expected telegram about the funeral of our
dear Christie came, saying it had been most impressive,
and that all the troops of the garrison took part.

Lord Boherts to Queen Victoria.

Pretohia, 1st November 1900.

Madam, — . . . I have had the great privilege to
receive your Majesty’s letter of the 5th October on the
subject of the position of the Commander-in-Chief. I
entirely share your Majesty’s views, and I have more
than once ventured to explain to Lord Lansdowne
that it seemed to me an impossible position for any
officer to fill with credit to himself or with benefit to
the nation. I trust I shall be able to make this clear
to whomever may be Lord Lansdowne’s successor at
the War Office, and it will be of the greatest possible
help to me to know that I shall thus be acting in
accordance with your Majesty’s wishes on this very
important matter.

With my most respectful duty, I am, Madam, your
Majesty’s most obedient humble servant, Roberts.

Extracts from the Queen^s Journal.

Balmoral, 5th Nov. 1900. — ^Felt very poorly and
wretched, as I have done all the last days. My

1900] LORD KITCHENER AND INDIAN COMMAND 617

appetite is completely gone, and I have great difficulty
in eating anything.

Windsor Castle, Tth Nov.—Ydt very tired and
out of sorts, so I rested and kept quiet. At twelve
dear Lenchen came to see me. It was a sad meeting.
She was wonderfully calm and resigned, and talked a
good deal about those who had been kind to her and
had written to her.

Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

Johannesburg, 8th November 1900.

Madame, — , . . I have just received your
Majesty’s most gracious letter of the 12th October.
Some time ago Lord Roberts, I believe, recommended
me to the Secretary of State for the Indian command,
and there is nothing I should like better than to gain
experience in that country which seems to me to be
one of the most valuable portions of your Majesty’s
vast Empire.

When the Ameer of Afghanistan dies, it is not
unlikely that there will be some trouble on the North-
west frontier of India, and I should like very much, if
possible, before anything of the sort happened, to
have some experience with the native troops of
India.

I feel that, with Lord Roberts and his staff at the
War Office, the changes necessary for the good of the
Army will i)e in absolutely safe hands. I do not think
that in his new work my services would be of much
use to him ; he has, however, suggested that I should,
after returning from South Africa, work for a few
months with him at the War Office before going to
India ; during that time any questions in which I
could help him would be thoroughly gone into, and,
as far as possible, settled. I have great hopes he will
receive the permanent assistance he requires in the
War Office from the far more capable hands of your
Majesty’s son, the Duke of Connaught, who has such
ample experience of the home army.

The Boers still keep up a hopeless struggle, hoping

618 QUEEN ILL AT WINDSOR [chap, xvi

for some form of European intervention through the
mediation of Mr. Kruger. ...

I have the honour to be, Madam, your Majesty’s
most obedient and very humble servant, Kitchenee.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, Qth Nov. 1900. — ^Had felt better
through the day and free from pain, but I still have a
disgust for aU food. The accounts of Lord Roberts’s
daughter are very bad, but she is said to be holding
her own.^

loth Nov. — ^Had an excellent night, but my appe-
tite is still very bad. Out for a short while with
Beatrice and, after one, having rested, I saw Lord
Salisbury. The principM topic of conversation was,
of course, the changes in the Government, which
almost amount to a new Cabinet. Sir M. White
Ridley is to be made a peer. Lord Cross, while feeling
much having to resign, understands the necessity for
it. Lord Cadogan is remaining on some short time in
Ireland. Lord Salisbury regrets the war dragging on,
and particularly that Lord Roberts cannot yet come
home, as he thinks, besides the necessity of getting
him back, Lord Katchener may perhaps carry out the
end of the war with more energy.

11th Nov. — ^Had a shocking night, and no draught
could make me sleep, as pain kept me awake. Felt
very tired and unwell when I got up, and was not able
to go to church, to my great disappointment. Arthur
arrived from Ireland and brought the girls from
London. Could do nothing for the whole morning.
Rested and slept a little. Young Arthur came over
from Sandhurst for a few hours. After luncheon I
rested, and later laid down and slept for an hour.
Lenchen and Thora came to tea, also Arthur. Did
some signing later and managed to write a letter, but
I could not go to dinner, and had something to eat in
the Audience-room with Beatrice. Arthur came and
sat with us afterwards. Saw no one else, and hoped
^ She recovi'‘TeS.

619

1900] BUT CONTINUES AT WORK

to have a good night, but I felt very restless and
uncomfortable. Sir J. Reid returned yesterday. Saw
him several times, as well as Dr. Bankart, ^ who leaves
to-morrow. The latter has been most kind and
attentive, and is very clever.

\^ih Nov . — ^Had again not a good night and slept
on rather late. My lack of appetite worse than ever.
It is very trying. The morning was very wet.
Rested and slept a little while. Held a Council in
the White Drawing-room shortly after one. Still not
feeling equal to dining with the ladies, and had some-
thing again with Beatrice, like last night.

13th Nov . — ^Had a better night, and was able to
take a little breakfast. A very wet morning, so
remained indoors, and dozed again for a while. After
luncheon saw two nuns, the Mother Superior and a
Sister Evangelist, of a Convent of Sisters of Mercy at
Mafeking. They nursed the sick and wounded in a
most exemplary and courageous manner, being very
much exposed, and the Mother Superior being even
fired at by the Boers. They were nice, simple-spoken
women, who must have gone through a terrible time,
and they are now shortly returning to Mafeldng again.
Both are Irish. It quite cleared up in the after-
noon, and I drove with Beatrice and dear Lenchen,
who came over after luncheon and remained till
after tea.

Saw Mr. Goschen, who took leave of me. Talked
of the different changes. He much regretted leaving,
saying that it was a great wrench, but that it had been
such a terrible strain upon him all through his time of
office with the House of Commons besides, that for
the sake of his health, he felt the time had come for
him to retire, and he had proposed it himself. He
said that he had talked it over with Mrs. Goschen
before her death, and that she had advised him when
the next election came not to be re-elected. Feeling
decidedly better again.

* He had been attending to the Queen, while Sir James Reid was
on leayp. s TTor the transfer of seals.

620

QUEEN BETTER

[chap. XVI

The Duke of York to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Youk HotjsEj S.W., IBtli November 1900.

My dear Bigge, — Sorry to have missed you when
I came to Windsor yesterday. I am very anxious to
present medals if possible to the men who have served
in the war in the different colonies of Australia when
I get out there. I saw Crutchley this morning ; he
says he thinks it can be managed, and has written to
you on the subject. He tells me there are to be
twelve clasps, and, if the Queen wiU approve of them
now, he can get them done. I also saw Brodrick at
the War Office this afternoon ; he is very keen that I
should present these medals when I get out there, and
has written to-night to the Queen to approve of the
clasps, so wiU you try and get this done as soon as
possible, and then they can send out the lists of the
clasps to the various commanding officers to be filled
in, as there is very little time to be lost. And I am
sure this would be appreciated in the Colonies, if it
can be done.

Tha nk God the Queen is better now, but she has
been quite seedy. Believe me, very sincerely yours,
George.

Extracts from the Queen'' s Journal.

Windsor Castle, IQth Nov. 1900. — ^After twelve
went over to St. George’s Hall with Beatrice and the
children, where I inspected about one hundred of the
Colonial troops, who had been invalided. There were
Canadians, Australians, Tasmanians, New Zealanders,
and men from the Cape and Ceylon, representing
forty-five regiments. Some of the men were very
fine-looking, all in khaki with felt hats. After I came
into the hall they formed up and filed past, under the
command of Major Syne, An old Australian Chap-
lain, who lost his leg by the bite of a mad horse,
named the different regiments the men belonged to,
as they came by. Before I left they formed up again,
and I said the following words : “ It is with much

1900] INSPECTS COLONIAL TROOPS 621

pleasure that I welcome you here to-day, and I thank
you warmly for your loyal and devoted services, and
wish you Godspeed on your way home.” They then
gave three cheers, and a sergeant called for “ One
more Colonial,” which apparently was a particular
way of cheering in Australia. The men were enter-
tained to luncheon by the Mayor and Corporation of
Windsor.

17th Nov. — Saw Sir Redvers Buller, who returned
a week ago. He said that when he last saw me,
before he went out, he did not in the least expect the
war to last so long, or that there would be such stub-
born resistance on the part of the enemy. Nothing
could exceed the fighting powers of our men, but
they were wanting in precaution. The country was
extremely difficult and trying. When urged that
there should be no recriminations, as I feared there
had been, Sir Redvers said there would be none from
him. Bertie arrived soon after seven, and came to
my room, where we talked for some time.

[Telegram.] The German Emperor to Queen Victoria.

Geoss Strehlitz, 17th Nov. 1900. — Sincere thanks
for kind enquiry. A mad old woman made for the
carriage brandishing an axe and threw it at us. It
luckily hit the back of the carriage. The attack came
from the left side where Bernhard was seated ; he was
in much greater danger than I, and might have been
hit in the shoulder. Thank God all went off so well.
Best love. Willy.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Hateield House, 17th Nov. 1900. — . . . It
appears that the throwing of an axe at the Emperor
William was the act of a madwoman. But the
multiplication of these attentats is a very formidable
symptom in modern society. Lord Sahsbury will
consult Mr. Ritchie upon the question whether any
legislative improvement is possible in this country.

622 PROMOTION FOR LORD KITCHENER [chap, xvi

Extracts from the Queen^s Journal.

Windsor Castle, IQth Nov. 1900. — ^Had a very
fair night, but my appetite much about the same.
The sitting through meals, unable to eat anything, is
most trying.

21sf Nov. — ^Darling Vicky’s sixtieth birthday. To
think of her, who was so wonderfully active and
strong, now so ill and suffering is heartbreaking.
All her children, excepting Sophie, were to be with
her. We pray daily that she may suffer less. Had
a disturbed night, which made me very late.

[Copy,] Mr. Brodrich to Queen Victoria.

War Oefice, 2l5i Nov. 1900. — ^Mr. Brodrick
presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and has the
honour to submit that onthe departure of Lord Roberts
from South Africa, Lord Kitchener of Khartoum
should receive the substantive rank of Lieutenant-
General and the temporary rank of General.

At present there are over 230,000 of your Majesty’s
troops in South Africa, and the extent of the command,
in the opinion of both Lord Wolseley and Lord
Roberts, would justify this rank being given to the
officer succeeding Lord Roberts.

In Lord Kitchener’s case, having regard to his
promotion to Major-General in 1896, no advance of
army rank was given after the battles of Atbara and
Omdurman in 1898, and although he has possessed
special powers when acting for Lord Roberts as Chief
of the Staff, his actual rank since January has left
him below many officers junior to him who have been
given the local rank of Lieut.-General in South Africa.
Mr. Brodrick therefore trusts this promotion may
meet with your Majesty’s approval.

Private. Mr. Brodrick to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War Office, 2 lst November 1900.

My dear Bigge, — I am much obliged by your
note. I also liave some remaW'! to m' Fe on T.orfl

623

1900] DISEMBODIMENT OF MILITIA

Wolseley’s memo., but I will defer troubling the
Queen with them till her Majesty wishes the dis-
cussion opened. I shall of course put off any action
till Lord Roberts has had an opportunity of working
the Order in Council. It has not been worked by
Lord Wolseley. Your reading of my views (1896) is
pretty accurate, and has held good.

Her Majesty may wish to know that the Cabinet
considered the question of disembodying a further
body of the Militia last Saturday. I informed Lord
Wolseley at once. He was consulted by Lord Lans-
downe a month ago, and objects to disembodiment ;
but the Cabinet are willing to take the responsibility,
seeing that —

1. The Militia are not going out of the country.

2. The state of affairs abroad does not cause
anxiety.

3. The men are very sick of work, and will infal-
libly buy out in large numbers as soon as released,
unless they are humoured a little.

Lord Wolseley will probably tell the Queen that he
was ignored. This is not so. His view was fully stated
to the Cabinet both by Lord Lansdowne and myself,
and the decision was deliberate. Twenty-one bat-
talions are now to be disembodied. Yours very
truly, St. John Beodrick.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Queen Victoria.

Foreign Office, 23rd Nov. 1900. — Lord Salisbury
with his humble duty to your Majesty respectfully
submits that a Cabinet Council was held to-day. . . .

It appeared that, to avoid interference at the out-
break of the war, promises were made to the House of
Commons that when it was over full enquiry should
be made into the conduct of it either by a Commission
or Committee. The Members of the Cabinet who were
in the House of Commons were fully convinced that
performance of this promise would now be insisted on
and could not be resisted. There was much discussion
as to the best mode of dealing with it. Intermediately

624 THE QUEEN’S HEALTH [chap, xvi

it was resolved to take steps to ascertain in what
measure the Opposition intended to approach it.

Extracts from the Queen‘‘s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 24ith Nov. 1900. — ^Heard from
Lord Roberts that the accident he had, falling with his
horse, had not been serious, and that he hoped to
hand over the command to Lord Kitchener next week.
Had some lengthened conversation with Mr. Brodrick,
whom I found very sensible and agreeable, taking
quite a right view of things and of the position of the
Commander-in- Chief.

28th Nov. — ^Had a very had restless night, with
a good deal of pain. Got up very late, and when I
did felt so tired I could do nothing, and slept on
the sofa.

Saw Lord Salisbury after tea, who talked a good
deal about my health, the necessity for my going
abroad and my getting a thorough change and rest.
He thought things were going on smoothly, and was
glad I was favourably impressed by Mr. Brodrick,
whom he considered one of the strongest and ablest
statesmen of the present day. Mr. Wyndham, he
thought, would do very well in Ireland. Lord
Salisbury thought, excepting China, and of course
the war, which must still give much trouble, that
there was nothing to cause alarm. It was very
important that Lord Roberts should return now.

Belt so exhausted and uncomfortable that I did
not go to dinner, but I went for a short while into the
drawing-room later. Lady Lansdowne was very kind
and full of sympathy about dear Christie. She also
said her husband was very grateful at having been
moved, as he had had such constant worries, and
found his present work much more interesting.

Lord Curzon to Queen Victoria.

Viceroy’s Camp, Trichinopoly, 28th Nov. 1900.
— . . . There is one subject which causes the Viceroy
some anxiety. In deference to your Majesty’s

1900] H.M. INSPECTS GUARDS 023

strongly and repeatedly expressed opinions, and in
accord with his own convictions, he worked out a
scheme for giving military employment and rank to
young Indian princes and nobles. It seems to be
admitted at home that if any scheme is to be tried,
this is more free from objection than any. But the
Viceroy hears with alarm from the Secretary of State,
who is personally favourable, that the hostile in-
fluences both at the India OfQce and the War Office
arc strong ; and that he is not very sanguine of
success. If this renewed attempt to solve the prob-
lem breaks down, the Viceroy fears that no one will
venture to touch it again for many a long day to
come.

The Viceroy concludes with the hope that in the
midst of your manifold anxieties and sorrows your
Majesty remains in good health and retains your
wonderful vitality and strength.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, Nov. 1900. — Had a good
night and felt rather better. A wet morning, so I
did not go out. In the afternoon, directly after
luncheon, saw the contingent of the 1st Life Guards
who landed this morning with the rest of the compo-
site regiment. I inspected them just in front of the
archway I always go out by, on their way from the
station to the barracks. May had come to meet her
brother Dolly, and Frank and Meg were with her.
May was in the carriage with Beatrice and me, and
Alice with the other children and ladies and gentle-
men were standing near by. Luckily it had ceased
raining, but it was cold and dark. The men looked
rather thin, but otherwise well and fit. When, after
marching past, they were drawn up close to the
carriage, I addressed the following words to them :
“ It is with feelings of great pleasure and deep thank-
fulness that I welcome you home after your gallant
and arduous services in the war in South Africa, just
a year after I bid you farewell. The hopes I then

626 INSPECTS CANADIAN TROOPS [chap, xvi

expressed have been amply fulfilled. Alas ! the joy
at your safe return is clouded over by the memory
of sad losses of many a valuable life, which I in com-
mon with you all have to deplore.”

SQth Nov . — A very fine bright morning, which
was very satisfactory for the visit of the Canadian
troops. I had a very fair night, but my appetite
still bad. At twelve went in the carriage with
Beatrice and Alice, and inspected the Canadian
troops, to the number of 240, in the Quadrangle.
They were drawn up just as on previous occasions,
receiving me with a royal salute, and the Colonel,
Colonel Otter, was presented to me, after which they
marched past and drew up close to the carriage, when
I addressed the following words to them : “ I am very
glad to see you here to-day and to express my warm
thanks for the admirable services rendered in the
war by the Canadian troops. T wish you all a safe
and happy return to your homes.” AH the officers
were presented, and one poor man, who had lost a
leg and was on crutches, was brought up to me. I
saw the men march off to the Riding School, where
they had their dinner. The three Canadian officers
[who dined with the Queen] were very nice, and
Colonel Otter knew Arthur quite well. He had been
wounded in South Africa, but had quite recovered.
Captain McDonald had been a prisoner with de Wet
for seven weeks. They all said their men and Canada
would never forget their day at Windsor.

Viscount Wolseley to Queen Victoria.

doth November 1900.

Madam, — I cease to be your Majesty’s Commander-
in-Chief this evening, and as it would seem that my
chance of re-employment in any other capacity is
small, I am rmwillingly compelled to regard my
retirement from office now as final.

I therefore presume to humbly and respectfully
express my heartfelt gratitude for the support and
consideration, as well as the many acts of gracious

1900] LOKD WOLSELEY’S RETIREMENT 627

kindness and the many rewards I have received from
your Majesty during the nearly forty -nine years I
have had the privilege of serving the Crown.

The pride in bemg a British soldier is enhanced
a hundredfold by the inward satisfaction experienced
by all ranks in serving your Majesty. This has been
felt by no one more keenly than by your Majesty’s
most humble and faithful servant, Wolseley, F.-M.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Windsor Castle, 2nd Dec. 1900 . — ^After a very
wretched night, I passed a very miserable day, and
could neither go out nor leave my room. Missed being
able to go to church and hearing a very fine sermon
from Dean Farrar, which annoyed me very much.
Slept a good deal and, as my repulsion for food was
very great, went to neither Imicheon nor dinner.
Beatrice read and played a little to me.

3rd Dec. — ^Had a better night. Went out with
Alice. Was very sleepy, and slept a little before
luncheon. Drove with Beatrice and Helen. Before
tea I received the Maharanee of Baroda, whom I
had seen several times before. She is still very
pretty, and speaks now quite fluent English. She
is quite well again, though not feeling very strong
after a severe operation she went through in the
summer. After tea I received Lord Ampthill, who
is going as Governor to Madras, and knighted him,
handing him the Star of India, after he had kissed
hands, but he can only wear it after getting to his
destination. I then saw Lady Ampthill. They are
both very tall and she very pretty. I was able to
dine, but could scarcely eat anything.

[Copy.] Queen Victoria to Viscount Wolseley.

Mh Dec. 1900 .' — ^The Queen wishes to thank
Lord Wolseley for his kind letter and to express her
sincere gratitude for his long and brilliant services
so faithfully rendered to his Sovereign, the Army,

TfT 'll!

628 PAY AND PENSION OF C.-IN-C. [chap, xvi

and Empire. She heartily joins with him in regretting
the termination of his great military career.

[Co'py.] Sir Arthur Bigge to Mr. Brodrick.

WiNDSOK Castle, 6th December 1900.

My dear Brodrick, — The Queen desires me to
ask you whether anything can be done to increase
Lord Wolseley’s pension, which her Majesty has
reason to believe is on a lower scale than that granted
to even civil officials, such as the Permanent Under-
secretary of State at the War Office — which, if her
Majesty is correctly informed, seems somewhat
anomalous.

While on this subject, the Queen hopes that you
may have seen a letter, written by me to Lord Lans-
downe at the end of last October, expressing her
Majesty’s earnest hope that the pay of the Com-
mander-in-Chief might be sufficiently raised to enable
him to rent a house in London within convenient
distance of the War Office and suitable for such a
reasonable amount of entertaining as ought to be
expected from the Military head of the Army.

The Queen trusts that it may be possible to ar-
range for this in the coming Army Estimates. Yours
very truly, A. J. Bigge.

Mr. Brodrick to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Private. Wah Office, 6th December 1900.

My dear Bigge, — have been in communication
with the Chancellor of the Exchequer as to the pension
of the Commander-in-Chief, who has not rendered
my task more easy by his recent attack on the
Exchequer.

I think, however, that I have persuaded Sir M.
Beach to raise the pension from the allowance of a
Field-Marshal, viz. £1,300 a year, to £2,000 a year,
which is in excess of any civil servant, and equal to
that of a Cabinet Minister. The £2,000 would be in
lieu of any emoluments enjoyed by Lord Wolseley, or
his successor, from public funds.

1900] SYMPTOMS SLIGHTLY BETTER 629

As regards the Commander-in-Chief, the Cabinet
of 1895 felt an objection, which I do not share, to
his receiving as much as the Secretary of State. The
present pay is £4,500. I have asked Sir M. Beach
to consent to an addition of £500 a year as House
Allowance. This will, I think, be conceded.

I trust her Majesty will be satisfied with these
arrangements.! It should be remembered that Lord
Wolseley has received £30,000 from the country for
his campaigns, and that Lord Roberts will probably
receive a larger grant very shortly. Yours very
truly, St. John Brodrick.

Extracts from the Queen^s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 11th Dec. 1900. — Had a toler-
ably good night. Beatrice returned after ten, having
had a good crossing. She described dear Vicky as not
being much altered in face, and being even cheerful
at times, but terribly ailing and suffering. Her only
occupation is reading and being read to, as she cannot
use her hands. Saw Sir Francis Laking for some time
after tea. He encouraged me by saying he thought I
should in time get over this unpleasant dislike for food
and squeamishness, as well as the great discomfort I
suffer from, and recommended my taking a little milk
and whisky several times a day, Georgie and May
arrived, bringmg Alge Teck with them, but I did not
see them before dinner, as I was feeling so tired. Alge
is looking well, but thin, and only arrived a day or two
ago from South Africa.

12f/i Dec . — ^Had a good night. At half-past twelve
drove with Beatrice and May to the Town Hall, where
a sale of Irish industries was arranged, which I looked
at before it was opened, being rolled round to each
stall, and the different ladies at each being presented
to me. Some of them I knew quite well, the principal

' The Queen was not satisfied ; and on 10th December Sir Arthur
Bigge, by her Majesty’s desire, wrote a further letter pressing for an
additional increase, considering how highly the chiefs in other pro-
fessions were paid. But Mr. Brodrick was unable to obtain what the
Queen desired.

630 SERVICE ON 14TH DECEMBER [chap, xvi

ones being Lady Arran, Lady Lucan, the Duchess of
Abercorn, Lady Castlerosse, Lady Mayo, Mrs. Lecky,
and Mrs. Adair. There were some very pretty things,
and I made various purchases,

IMh Dec. — This sad day, so full of terrible memor-
ies, returned again. Beatrice, May, and Alice break-
fasted with me. Drove down for the service at the
Mausoleum at a quarter to twelve, all the family
attending it, and Thora and Abby joined us there.
The special prayer was very beautiful and the music
lovely. The Bishop of Winchester kindly performed
the service, assisted by Mr. Ellison. ^ May and
Georgie took leave of me at the Mausoleum. In the
afternoon, which was dull and dark, drove with Alix.
Feeling very imwell again, and it was a great effort to
go to dimrer.

Mr. Brodrick to Sir Arthur Bigge.

War Office, 15ih December 1900.

My dear Bigge, — The unrest among the Militia,
Yeomanry, and Volunteers in South Africa, due to their
detention under very arduous conditions for a pro-
longed period, is showing itself by private letters, and
has evidently impressed Lord Kitchener very much.
He urgently telegraphs for drafts with which to relieve
a portion of them.

I do not think any more Militia could be got to
vohmteer, we have no Yeomanry drafts, but I am
sending 800 Mounted Infantry, and making various
suggestions to alleviate the situation. I have also
got the Treasury to raise the police to 10,000, and they
will soon begin to go. But we cannot spare a man at
present.

Would the Queen consider the propriety of author-
ising such a Proclamation as I enclose ? It is only a
draft, but I am assured such an appeal would give
boundless satisfaction, and allay, much disquiet. If
it is likely to be approved,® I will submit it formally.

' Rev. J. H. E. Ellison, Vicar of Windsor.

‘ It was approved and issued — see next pave.

631

1900] QUEEN’S THANKS TO VOLUNTEERS

I hear on all hands that our troops are too
scattered, and I understand Lord Kitchener intends
to redistribute them. But he telegraphs little,
which is perhaps as well.

I find he had been paid all along as a Major-General,
with great loss to himself, while all the local Lieut.-
Generals (his subordinates before) had Lieut. -Generals’
pay. I have rectified this for the past, and put his new
pay on a proper footing, which has much gratified him.
We must not “ muzzle the ox that treadeth out the
corn.” Yours very truly, St. John Buoduick.

Extract from the Queen’s Journal.

Windsor Castle, 16th Dec. 1900. — Had a very bad
night and only got up late, having my breakfast alone.
Followed the others to the Chapel as quickly as
possible. Canon Robertson preached. Afterwards
went out for a little with Beatrice and the children.
Was very tired and drowsy after luncheon, so rested
and slept most of the afternoon. Lenchen came to
tea, after which I saw Lord Salisbury, but I did not feel
up to a very lengthened conversation. Was unable
to go to dinner. Beatrice sat with [me] afterwards,
and read a little to me.

[Draft.] Queen Victoria to the Adjutant-General,

18th Dec. 1900. — Her Majesty the Queen com-
mands the Adjutant- General to convey to the Militia,
Yeomanry, and Volunteers, who have served during
the past year in South Africa, the Mediterranean, and
elsewhere, her grateful appreciation of their signal
services.

Her Majesty has been glad to observe the testimony
borne by general officers to the admirable spirit by
which all ranks have been animated, the zeal and
discipline which they have displayed, and the state of
efficiency which they have attained.

The Queen deeply regrets the sickness and loss of
life which have occurred, and highly values the
sacrifices made by soldiers of all ranks in these

632 LAST JOURNEY TO OSBORNE [chap, xvi

branches of the service in the cause of their country,
despite personal inconvenience and pecuniary loss.

Her Majesty relies on those still employed abroad
to continue to give their best services in aid of her
regular army, and trusts that the day may not be far
distant when she may welcome them home again.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, l%th Dec. 1900. — ^Had a very bad night,
and scarcely slept at all. Breakfasted late and left
[Windsor] for Osborne at 11.40 with Beatrice and Ena,
Thora meeting us at the station. Drino had arrived
early from Wellington College. Slept for an hour in
the train, and then I had a little broth, but I could not
take much . Embarked on the A Iberta at two . It was
rather rough just outside Portsmouth, but became
quite calm afterwards . Arrived up at the house about
3.80. Eelt too tired to do anything, and dozed for a
short while. Had some dinner with Beatrice and
Thora, in the room in which we generally breakfast.
There was very unsatisfactory news from South
Africa, the Boers being terribly active all over the
country,

IQth Dec. — ^Had another very bad night. An
attempt was made to induce me to sleep by Beatrice
reading aloud, but it quite failed in its object, as it
only made me wakeful. Had a very late breakfast,
and did not go out, as it was pouring with rain.
Rested and slept a little. In the afternoon drove with
Thora, but could not go to any meals, and did not do
anything aU day. Beatrice and Thora sat with me a
little in the evening, and I went to bed at ten, feeling
quite tired out.

Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

Residency, Pretoria, 20th Dec. 1900. — I beg to
inform your Majesty that I have visited the wounded
in hospital, and given them your Majesty’s gracious
message ; they are all doing well, though I fear
Lieutenant Stanton, shot in the spine, will not recover.

Ln’"D TTTTCTUi'.NET?.

1900]

DEATH OF LADY CHURCHILL

633

Extracts from the Queen’s Journal.

OSBOENE, 22nd Dec. 1900.— I slept a little at ftrst,
and then was rather disturbed, after which I slept on
again till quarter to twelve, at which I was very
annoyed. I got up and had some breakfast, which I
really liked, then drove out with Thora, I am rather
better, but still see very badly. All my good people,
my maids and Indian servants are indefatigable, and
so anxious to do anything they can for me. Lenchen
and Arthur and Louischen, who have come to spend
Christmas here with their children, arrived, and I saw
them each separately for a moment.

25th Dec . — Did not have a good night, was very
restless, and every remedy that was tried failed in
making me sleep. Then when I wished to get up I
fell asleep again, which was too provoldng. Went out
with Lenchen and Beatrice about one, and the former
told me Sir J. Reid wished me to know that dear Jane
Churchill ^ had had one of her bad heart attacks in the
night, and that he had telegraphed for her son, as he
thought very seriously of her condition. I said,
“You remember I warned and asked her son whether
it was safe for her to come, as she was so ill at this very
time last year.” I felt anxious, and on coming home
sent for Sir James, who said, “ She is very ill,” so I
asked if it would not be better to send at once for
another lady, to which he replied, “ Most decidedly.”
Later, after I had had some broth and rested a little,
I took a short drive with Louischen and Thora, and
we talked a great deal about dear Jane, as I was so
distressed at her being so ill. Directly I returned, I
again sent for Sir James, who said, “ I was just coming
to tell your Majesty all was over.” She died this
morning early, in her sleep, and had just slept peace-
fully away. They had not dared to tell me for fear of
giving me a shock, so had prepared me gradually for
the terrible news. I saw Harriet Phipps, who told me

I She was daughter of the Marquis of Conyngham, and married in
1849 the 2nd Lord Churchill, who died in 1886.

634 QUEEN “LOW AND SAD” [chap, xvi

all about it, I naturally was much upset and very
unhappy, as dear Jane was one of my most faithful
and intimate friends. At six, had a little service in
the drawing-room, performed by Mr. Ellison, who
gave a very nice short address and three hymns were
sung, Beatrice playing the harmonium. Then I went
upstairs and rested. This has indeed been a terribly
sad Christmas for us all.

26th Dec. — Saw poor Victor Churchill,^ who was
terribly distressed, as was I too. The loss to me is
not to be told. Dear Jane had been with me nearly
fifty years. He said the doctor had been asked
whether she might come here, as I feared it might be
too much for her, but that he assured them she was
better than she had been for some time. Victor said
she had been so happy the last evening, saying she
had never spent a pleasanter one, except that I was
not there, and thought that, but for the trouble it
had given me, which would have distressed her, she
could not have had a more peaceful and blessed
death. He thanked me again and again. I could
scarcely speak.

Lord Kitchener to Queen Victoria.

Residency, Peetoria, 26th Dec. 1900. — Your
Majesty’s most gracious message has been com-
municated to the troops. In their name I humbly
beg to express our sincere hope that the New Year
may prove one of great happiness to your Majesty
and the Royal Eamily. Lord Kitchener.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 27th Dec. 1900. — ^Had only a pretty good
night, as I was much disturbed by the wind. I took
several draughts, and then some milk, and fell asleep
towards morning, so did not get up till nearly one.
Pelt very low and sad. There had been a service in

' 3rd Lord ChurchiU, Jane Lady Churchill’s only son, -who was
advanced to a Viscountcy in 1902 ; subsequently Chairman of the
Great Western Railway.

1900] H.M. DICTATES HER JOURNAL 635

the Chapel at eleven, at which all the family, except-
ing the children, were present. Dear Jane’s’remams
had rested there since yesterday evening. It had all
been beautifully arranged with flowers by Lenehen
and Beatrice.

Took a drive with Lenehen and Daisy at 2.30,
having first signed several things. It was not a
pleasant day, as the wind was so high, and I did not
remain out long. Rested and had some broth on
coming home. Felt very sad, and saw poor Victor
Churchill again. I was able to be a little calmer and
talk about the happy old days. Later I dictated to
Beatrice a letter for dear Vicky, and then my Journal
again to Thora, which she has been writing for me
since we came here. They are all overworked.

28th Dec. — I had a bad night, though I got a little
sleep at the beginning. Besides, I don’t think I could
have slept, as there was such a fearful storm. Then
I thought of what would be going on, beloved Jane
being taken away, and all following to the ship. The
weather was so tempestuous, that I got quite alarmed
about it. I went to sleep again, after I had wished
to get up, which was very tiresome. It rained and
blew so hard that it was impossible to think of going
out, so I did some signing, though I could hardly see
a word I wrote.

I felt very low and sad, which distressed my
children very much.

2Qth Dec. — A fair night, and I got up rather earlier,
but could take little breakfast. Went out after one,
with Lenehen and Beatrice. Managed to eat a little
cold beef, which is the first I have had for weeks, and
I really enjoyed [it].

31st Dec. — A terribly stormy night. The same
unfortunate alternations of sleep and restlessness, so
that I again did not get up when I wished to, which
spoilt my morning and day. Got out a little after
one with Beatrice. When I came in I had to sign for
a new Trustee to my private money, who is Louis
Battenberg. Lord E. Clinton and Sir F. Edwards

636 CLOSE OF THE YEAR [chap, xvi

were witnesses. The afternoon was wet, and 1 took
a short drive in a closed carriage with Harriet P[hipps].
Rested when I came in. At a little after nine, after
having my supper off Benger’s Food, Harriet P. read
to me, and I fell quite asleep, so that Thora did not
write the Journal, as it had got too late. Beatrice
and Arthur only came up just to say good night. The
news from South Africa was not very good. A post
of our troops had been rushed by the enemy, and a
gun was taken. We have, however, reoccupied the
post.

CHAPTER XVII
1901

JANUARY

Extracts from the Queen's Journal,

Osborne, 1st Jan. 1901. — ^Another year begun,
and I am feeling so weak and unwell that I enter
upon it sadly. The same sort of night as I have been
having lately, but I did get rather more sleep and
was up earlier. Lcnchen and Beatrice came and
wished me a happy New Year, as did also Thora ; the
others I saw later. Heaps of telegrams, letters, and
cards, which Lenchen and Beatrice kindly answered
for me. In the afternoon I drove with Arthur and
Thora, and we went down to the Soldiers’ Home, where
there are some convalescents from South Africa.
I said a few words to them, thanking them for their
services, and wishing them a happy New Year.
Then we drove to Whippingham and called on Mr.
Clement Smith, who came out to the carriage and
spoke to us. Rested when I came home. Have been
able to take a little more food the last three days.
After my supper, Ismay S[outhampton] came and
read to me, and then I dictated a little to Thora.

2nd Jan . — Rather a better night, but slept on
late into the morning, which is so provoking. Heard
that Lord Roberts’s ship had arrived safely, and was
anchored in the Roads. I managed to get out for
half an hour with Lenchen, and went to look at the
arch which has been put in honour of Lord Roberts

fi37

638 QUEEN BESTOWS ON LORD ROBERTS [chap, xvii

at the Prince of Wales Gate. Drove in the afternoon,
getting home just in time before Lord Roberts arrived.
Arthur, and Beatrice, in her capacity as Governor of
the Isle of Wight, met him at IVinity Pier, where he
received an Address from the townspeople.

On Lord Roberts’s arrival here, Arthur took him to
the Council-room, where the family were assembled,
and then took him to see Lenchen in her own room,
after which he brought him to the drawing-room,
where I was. I received him most warmly, shaking
hands with him, and he laielt down and kissed my
hand. Arthur then left him with me. Lord Roberts
spoke with such grief of dear Christie’s death, and said
he could not say how deeply he mourned him, and
how he felt for all of us. It had been such a shock, as
he had not had the slightest idea there was any
danger during Christie’s whole illness ; up to the very
last he had looked so well and been so cheerful.
Lord Roberts spoke of several officers who had not
done well, and of others who had done excellently ;
also of all the difficulties our army had had to contend
with. We deeply deplored the loss of so many
valuable lives. He still wears his arm in a sling, the
result of a fa.ll from his horse.

After about half an hour Arthur came back with
Louischen, Daisy, young Arthur, and Thora. I then
gave Lord Roberts the Garter, which quite overcame
him, and he said it was too much. I also told him I
was going to confer an earldom on him, with the
remainder to his daughter. He presented two
members of his staff, Lord Stanley ^ and Colonel
Cowan, then his six Indian orderlies, such fine-looking
men, and the officer in charge of them, Captain Max-
well, who is Lord Roberts’s nephew. I took leave of
Lord Roberts, as also of Arthur, Louischen and their
children, who were returning, first taking Lord
Roberts to Southampton. I felt a little tired, so
rested and slept for awhile. Later Ismay S. came
and read to me.

^ The present Earl of Derby.

639

1901] GARTER AND EARLDOM

Uh Jan. — From not having been Well, I see so
badly, which is very tiresome. Heard by telegram
that Lord Roberts’s reception in London yesterday
had gone of! extremely well, though the weather had
been dull. Had a telegram from Lord Kitchener,
which was satisfactory.

The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Downing Steeet, S.W., 4>th January 1901.

My dear Sir Arthur, — 1 will of course lay your
letter before the Cabinet whefi it meets on the 12th.

•The question I fear is one of great difficulty,
because it involves questions of policy on the one
side, and of personal honour on the other. The
pledges that a full enquiry would be accorded were so
distinct, and were so often repeated, that it may be
impossible to treat them with entire disregard. Some
understanding with the other side may possibly be
devised, which may enable a properly selected Com-
mission to keep clear of any really scandalous investi-
gation. But I will at once consult the leader of the
House of Commons. Yours very truly, Salisbury.

Endorsement by Sir Arthur Bigge : —

In reply to a letter expressing a hope that the
Government would not agree to the appointment of
a Committee to enquire into the conduct of the South
African War.

Lord Roberts to Queen Victoria.

Mackellak’s Hotel, Dovee Steeet, 5th January 1901.

Madam, — I was quite unable when at Osborne on
Wednesday last to express how deeply I felt your
Majesty’s gracious kindness to me. The high honours
conferred upon me were so imexpected, and took me
so completely by surprise, that I felt quite over-
whelmed, and had no words with which to express my
gratitude for such a magnificent recognition of my
services.

I only trust that, in the high and responsible posi-
tion ^ in which your Majesty has been pleased to

1 Of rornTTi E6f>r-iE. Chief.

640 SUNDAY SERVICE IN DRAWING-ROOM [chap, xvii

place me, I may be able to do my duty in such a
manner as will show my deep sense of the obligation
I am under to you, Madam, and be of some benefit
to your Majesty’s Army.

With my most respectfxil duty, I am, Madam,
your Majesty’s most obedient humble servant,
Roberts.

Extracts from the Queeri^s Journal.

Osborne, 6th Jan. 1901. — At five had a short
service in the drawing-room like the other day. The
ladies and some of the gentlemen and servants were
present. We had three hymns, one very pretty one,
the Vesper hymn. Only the choir boys sang, and
Beatrice accompanied on the harmonium. Mr.
Clement Smith officiated. Had my supper of Ben-
ger’s Food, which is very soothing and nourishing,
after which Ismay S. came and read to me, and then
Lenchen and Beatrice sat with me for awhile. Saw
Sir Francis Baking, who is here to relieve Sir James
Reid a little.

%ih Jan, — Have appointed Verena Churchill to take
her dear mother-in-law’s place as Lady -in- Waiting,
which keeps up the connection with our dear Jane, and
I know si|ie would have been so pleased. Verena is
very amiable and nice.

Mr. Brodrick to Sir Arthur Bigge.

Wab Office, Wh January 1901.

My dear Bigge, — In reply to your letter of to-day
as regards the “ African Order,” the Cabinet carefully
considered it, and I mentioned the Queen’s remark
to me that we had many orders already. The
general view coincided with her Majesty’s, and it
was also held that heavy pressure would be brought
to bear by officers who might expect the Bath for
their services to secure that distinction rather than
the new order.

In brief, it was believed some 6,000 names would
be mentioned. There are in fact more, but I only
received Sir R. Buller’s list two days ago.

LAST DAYS

1901]

641

It was held that of these, say one-third would not
be actually “ mentioned in despatches ” ; one-third
would have that mention recorded, and one-third
would be rewarded.

Lord Salisbury expressed himself as quite ready
to ask the Queen for a special extension of the Bath
and St. Michael and St, George for this purpose, the
vacancies as they occurred not being filled up.

The sort of figures which would be proposed are :

Bath, some 1,280 strong, add . . 500

. St. M. and St. G., 660 strong, add . 300

D.S.O, (unlimited) 400 strong, add 300
Promotions, say .... l,000

2,100

These figures look very large, and I have not sub-
mitted them, but we have had over 250,000 troops
there, the war has gone on over fifteen months, and
the fighting has been incessant. I write this quite
informally, but her Majesty may like to learn the
figures before any regular submission is made. . . .
Yours very truly, Sx. John Beodrick.

Extracts from the Queen's Journal.

Osborne, 'iOth Jan. 1901. — Rather a better night,
but I slept on late. Only got out for a short time in
the morning, and in the afternoon drove with Lenchen
and Beatrice to Newport and back. Rested when I
came in and had some food, then saw Mr. Chamber-
lain for a little while. After my supper saw Emily
Ampthill, who has succeeded Ismay Sputhampton,
for a few moments, and then Lenchen and Beatrice
came up to wish me good-night. A good telegram
from Lord Kitchener.

12th Jan. — ^Had a good night and could take some
breakfast better. Took an hour’s drive at half-past
two with Lenchen. It was very foggy, but the air
was pleasant. Had some food when I came in and
rested. Afterwards little Leopold played charmingly
on the violin, Beatrice accompanying him, and then

642 THE END [chap, xvii

she and Minnie Cochrane played some very nice duets.
Took a lait de poule, then signed and dictated to
Lenchen. Harriet read to me after my supper, and
Lenchen and Beatrice came up afterwards.

13th Jan . — ^Had a fair night, but was a little
wakeful. Got up earlier and had some milk. Len-
chen came and read some papers. Out before one,
m the garden chair, Lenchen and Beatrice going with
me. Rested a little, had some food, and took a short
drive with Lenchen and Beatrice. Rested when I
came in, and at five-thirty went down to the drawing-
room, where a short service was held by Mr. Clement
Smith, who performed it so well, and it was a great
comfort to me. Rested again afterwards, then did
some signing, and dictated to Lenchen.

Here, on Sunday, the 13th January, the Queen’s
Journal, kept for nearly seventy years, ends. On
the Monday her Majesty saw Lord Roberts again
for a short while ; but within a few days the illness
assumed a critical character; and on Saturday, the
19th, a bulletin was published, giving her people
the first intimation of the impending ealamity. It
said : “ The Queen has not lately been in her usual
health, and is unable for the present to take her
customary drives. The Queen during the past year
has had a great strain upon her powers, which has
rather told upon her Majesty’s nervous system. It
has, therefore, been thought advisable by her Majesty’s
physicians that the Queen should be kept perfectly
quiet in the house, and should abstain for the present
from transacting business.” The last phase was
mercifully short; and at 6.30 p.m. on Tuesday, the
22nd January 1901, Queen Victoria, in the words of
the final bulletin, “ breathed her last, surrounded by
her children and grandchildren.”

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

(The page references in italics refer to footnotes.)

Abdul Kamm teaches Queen Victoria
Hindustani, 73

Aberdeen, Earl (now Marquis) of, 167
Abyssinia, Emperor Menelek of,
263, 310, 394, 460, 660

Empress Taitou of, 310, 394,

660

Acton, Lord, 180
Aird, John, M.P., 123
Akera-Douglaa, Rt. Hon. A. (after-
wards Viscount Chilston), 6, 606,
607

Albani, Madame, 171, 186
Albany, H.R.H. Duke of (Duke of
Saxe-Coburg-Gotha), 337, 348,

368, 360, 384, 386, 391, 436, 626,
584

H.R.H. Helen, Duchess of, 171,

373, 384, 391, 626, 627
Albert, H.R.II. Prince Consort, in-
fluence on the Queen, v, vi

Prince, younger son of Prince

Christian, 171, 267, 630
d’Alengon, Duchesse, 156 , 160
Alfred, H.R.H. Prince, see Coburg,
Duke of

Ampthfll, Emily Lady, 107, 108, 417,
418, 603, 504, 584, 641

Lord and Lady, 627

Antrim, Louisa, Countess of (now
Dowager), 104, 146, 237, 240, 409,
412

ArgyU, 8th Duke of, 181, 549
Armenia, massacres in, 4, 22
Arnold, Sir Arthur, 123
Arthur, H.R.H. Prince, see Con-
naught, Duke of
Ashbourne, Lord, 6
Asquith, Rt. Hon. H. H. (afterwards
Earl of Oxford and Asquith), 264,
431, 482

Atbara, Battle of, 219, 241
AthoU, Louisa, Duchess of, 163

Augusta Victoria, H.I.M. German
Empress, 387, 401, 420, 423, 424,
425

d’Aumale, Due, 158

Austin, Alfred, 24

Australia,Eederationof Colonies, 163,
221, 331, 344, 456, 466, 618, 662,
666 ; and South African War, 412,
466

Austria, Archduke Eranz Eerdinand
of, 173, 174

Emperor of, 36, 146, 236, 278

Empress of, assassination, 222,

277, 327

Baden-Powell, Colonel (now Lord),
besieged in Mafekmg, 330, 464,
520, 649, 660, 666, 666

Bagot, Lord, 157

BaiUie -Hamilton, Sir William, 166

Balfour, Rt. Hon. Arthur James
(afterwards Earl of), 4, 6, 182 ;
debate on policy in Soudan, 34, 38 ;
debate on Education BOl, 64;
discuBsea Government’s policy, 73 ;
dines with the Queen, 108, 308 ;
and modified Education BiU, 114,
147 ; on services at Diamond
Jubilee, 142 ; on the Queen’s
Garden Party to M.P.s, 188 ; de-
bate on Report of South African
Committee, 193 ; debate on Naval
Estimates, 236; acts as Eoreign
Secretary, 237, 261 ; adjournment
of House on Mr. Gladstone’s death,
247 ; debate on foreign affairs, 253 ;
disouBses current affairs with
the Queen, 336, 432, 439 ; reports
proceedings in House of Commons,
339, 480, 482, 611 ; debates on
afiairs in Transvaal, 389, 391, 407 ;
sees the German Emperor, 422;
on Duke of Connaught as Q.M.G,,

TIT

643

644

INDEX TO VUL. ill

443 ; expresses Members’ pleasure
at the Queen’s reception, 606 ; on
popular affection for the Queen,
616 ; on passage of AustraUan
Federation Bill in Commons, 662 ;
debate on alleged medical break-
do wn in South Africa, 667 ; on pro-
posed Dissolution, 678; discusses
political situation with Sir A.
Bigge, 599, 603 ; on lord Salisbury
at Foreign Office, 606
Balfour, Et. Hon. Gerald (now 2nd
Earl of), introduces Irish Local
Government Bill, 222 ; Secretary
for Scotland, 604, 612

of Burleigh, Lord, 6, 698, 606

Bancroft, Mr. and Mrs. (afterwards
Sir Squire and Lady), 186
Bankart, Dr., 337, 613, 619
Baroda, Maharanee of, 627
Barton, Mr., first Fremier of Aus-
tralia, 163, 465

Battenberg, Prince Alexander of
(now Marquis of Oarisbrooke), 28,
560, 651, 680, 632

Princess Ena of (Queen of Spain,

1906-31), 28, 632

Prince Francis Joseph of, 26,

79, 82, 409

H.E.H. Prince Henry of, hus-
band of Princess Beatrice, iUness
and death, 1, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23,
25, 27 ; with Ashanti Expedition,
7, 16 ; aimiversary, 122

Prince Louis of (afterwards

Marquis of Milford Haven), 26,
646, 647, 636

Princess Louis of (afterwards

Marchioness of Milford Haven),
146, 173, 448, 545

Beach, Et. Hon. Sir Michael Hicks
(afterwards Earl St. Aldwyn),
OhanoeUor of the Exchequer, 6,
127, 146, 193, 226, 699, 605, 628 ;
on expenses of Biamond Jubilee
Celebrations, 197 ; on Band-
masters, 391

Beaoonsfield, Earl of, anniversary of
his death, 151, 244
Beatrice, H.E.H. Princess (Princess
Henry of Battenberg), accom-
panies the Queen, 6, 7, 74, 79, 82,
146, 156, 158, 163, 166, 170, 171,

172, 174, 176, 182, 183, 186, 186,
187, 196, 207, 238, 240, 245, 261,
266, 283, 289, 314, 337, 386, 367,
371, 372 , 373, 409 , 420, 422 , 423,
424, 426, 490, 603, 604, 606 , 607,
619, 621, 524, 627, 630, 632, 534,
636, 644, 646, 647, 549, 660, 661,
656, 667, 613, 618, 619, 620, 626,
626, 627, 630, 631, 632, 633, 634,
635, 636, 637, 640, 641, 642 ; HI-
ness and death of her husband, 18,
20, 21, 26, 28, 36, 110, 122 ; grief
at death of Duke of Coburg, 680 ;
visits Empress Frederick, 629 ;
meets Lord Eoberts, 638
Bedford, 9th Duke of, 611, 612

Dowager Duchess of, 152

Belmont, engagement at, 330, 424
Benson, Dr., Archbishop of Canter-
bury, congratulates the Queen, 80 ;
deatff^of, 90 ; memorial to, 661

Dr, Arthur, vi, 372, 486

Mrs., wife of the Archbishop,

Queen’s sympathy with, 91 ; re-
ceived by the Queen, 104
Bernhardt, Sarah, performs before
the Queen, 161

Bertie, Hon. Francis (afterwards Vis-
count Bertie of Thame), 663, 683
Biddulph, Lady Elizabeth, 418
Bigge, Sir Arthur (afterwards Lord
Stamiordham), vi, 7, 634 ; dines
with the Queen, 19, 104, 107, 108,
140, 308, 385, 418, 632 on Dia-
mond Jubilee celebrations, 122,
164; at service in St. George’s
Chapel, Windsor, 171 ; and Coburg
succession, 361 ; informs the
Queen of changes in command in
South Africa, 436 ; conversation on
German Emperor’s peace sugges-
tions with Lord Salisbury, 507 ; and
on Cabinet appointments with Mr.
Balfour and Lord Salisbury, 597,
699, 604 ; on sanitary conditions
of Windsor, 607, 608,612; informs
Prince of Wales of Cabinet ohanges,
612

Bismarck, Prince, 222, 262, 381, 421,
423

Boer War, see South Africa
Botha, General, 464, 682, 601
Bradford, Sir Edward, 74, 294

INDEX TO VOL. Ill 645

Braasey, Lord (afterwards lat Earl),
on Australian Federation, 103, 344;
on Australia and the South. African
War, 412

Breadalbane, Marquis and March-
ioness of, 104
Bridport, Viscount, 19, 108
British South Africa Co., 42, 66, 112
Brodrick, Rt. Hon. St. John (now
Earl of Midleton), at Foreign
Office, 340 ; Secretary for War,
605, 011, 612, 020; on Lord
Kitchener’s promotion and pay,
622, 031 ; on Militia, 623, 630 ; on
pay and pension of Commander -in-
Chief,628 ; on war decorations, 640
Bryan, Mr. W. J., 76, 104
Bryce, Rt. Hon. James (afterwards
Viscount), 306
Buccleuch, 6th Duke of, 205

Louisa, Duchess of, 167,182, 646

Buchanan, Mr. (afterwards Sir)
George, 160, 314

BuUer, General Sir Redvers, Adju-
tant-General, 143, 200 ; Command
in South Africa, 330, 398, 403; at
Colenao, 330, 436 ; received by the
Queen, 403 ; plana for advance,
415, 428, 446, 465, 480; urges
blockade of Delagoa Bay, 431 ; the
Queen’s confidence in, 434 ; ques-
tion of supersession, 436, 437, 439,
441, 442 ; on wounded, 443, 448 ;
relief of Ladysmith, 452, 466, 469,
483, 494, 497 ; in Eastern Trans-
vaal, 454 ; recommends Lieut.
Roberts for V.C,, 467 ; Spion Kop,
468 ; disagreement with Lord
Roberts, 486, 486 ; takes Monte
Cristo, 490 ; and Spion Kop
despatches, 5S6, 534, 641, 642;
ends campaign in Natal, 602 ;
received by the Queen, 621
von Bulow, Count, German Foreign
Minister, 114, 268, 359, 399, 401,
423, 440

Bulteel, Miss Elizabeth, 314
Burdett, Mr. (afterwards Sm) Henry,
123

Burdett-Coutts, W. L., M.P., 567,683
Burns, Rt, Hon. John, 482
Buxton, Sydney (afterwards Earl),
M,P., 123

OAnoQAN, Countess, 621, 622, 628i
532, 635, 644

■ 5th Earl, Lord-Lieutenant of

Ireland, 6, 171, 198, 601, 617, 621,
522, 528, 636, 644, diS, 618

Hon. Ethel, 107, 108, 314, 385

Caesar's Camp, action at, 464, 457
Camhon, Monsieur, French Ambas-
sador to England, 283, 316, 333,
386

Cambridge, H.R.H. George, Duke of,
79, 116, 117, 145, 175, 371, 372,
420, 447, 540

CampbeU-Bannerman, Rt. Hon. Sir
Henry, 329, 339, 389, 407, 482, 668
Canovoa, Senor, assassinated, 114
Canterbury, Dean of. Dr. Farrar,
107, 627

Carin^on, Colonel Hon. W. H. P.,
636

Carnot, Captain Sadi, 290
Oarria^on, Major-General Sir F., 97
Caatlereagh, Viscountess, 649
Cave, Mr. (afterwards Sir) Basil, 71
Cavendish, Lady Edward, 424
Cecil, Lord Edward, 314

Lord WiUiam, 227

Chamberlain, Rt. Hon. Joseph,
Colonial Secretary, and the
Jameson Raid, 1, 2, 6, 7, 9, 11, 23,
53; dines with the Queen, 19,167 ;
on dispersal of Jameson Raiders,
28 ; on Mntabeleland rising, 38,
40, 97 ; on Sir H. Robinson, 38 ;
on sentences of Raiders, 41, 42 ;
surveys South African affairs, 49,
107, 157 ; visits U.S.A., 66, 76 ; on
High Commissioner for South
Africa, 69, 128 ; inaugurates Im-
perial Conference, 111 ; social
programme of, 114 ; sympathy
with Greece, 133, 146 ; on Colonial
troops at Diamond Jubilee, 166; on
Colonial Premiers in Privy Council,
167 ; presents Colonial Premiers
to the Queen, 189 ; defends his
action regarding Jameson Raid,
194; on Duke and Duchess of
York visiting New Zealand, 229,
230 ; replies to attack on speech
at Birmingham, 264 ; on Colonial
Governors, 327 ; on enquiry into
Transvaal Franchise Act, 328 ;

646

INDEX TO VOL. HI

speeches on South Africa, 320,
390, 408; despatch to South
African Republic, 396, 400; South
African Government’s ultimatum,
405 ; on South African War, 406,
419, 480 ; messages to Canada and
Australia, 414 ; on Nigeria, 427 ;
discusses war with the Queen, 466 ;
on Zululand, 486 ; presents Austra-
lian delegates, 619 ; on ladies visit-
ing South Africa, 620 ; on Orange
Eree State, 653 ; discusses Austra-
lian affairs with the Queen, 666 ; a,n-
nexationof South African Republic,
569 ; memorandum on Australian
Governors, 676 ; on visit of Duke
and Duchess of York to Austra-
lasia, 586 ; sees the Queen, 641
Chamberlain, Mrs., 167, 189
Chaplin, Rt. Hon. Henry (after-
wards Viscount), 6, 612 ; moves
second reading of Auto-Motor Car
Bill, 66

Ohermside, Colonel (afterwards
General Sir Herbert), 281 , 282, 284
China, British policy in, 238, 239 ;
Boxer Rising in, 466, 669, 661,566,
669, 670, 671, 572, 576, 683, 685,
624

Christian, H.B.H. Prince, of Schles-
wig-Holstein, 32, 171, 184, 288,
314, 373, 545, 647, 614

Princess, see Helena, H.B.H.

Princess

Victor, Prince, elder son of

Prince Christian, 19, 32, 171, 273,
317, 404, 436, 446, 466, 583 ; death
of, 466, 613, 614, 638
Churchill, Jane Lady, 28, 110, 182,
283, 449, 456, 650, 661, 633

Lady Edward, 372, 426

Lord (afterwards Visoonnt), 314,

386, 634, 636

Viscountess, 640

City Imperial Volunteers, 330, 457,
601

ClanwUliam, 4th Earl of, 614
Clarendon, 6th Earl of, 316, 418
Clarke, Sir Edward, 408
Clerk, Colonel, 104, 317, 386
Cleveland, President, 45
Clinton, Lord Edward, 110, 227, 314,
385, m, 635

Coburg, H.BJ-I. Alfred, Duke of
(formerly Duke of Edinburgh), 171,
173, 182, 238, 239, 240, 337, 347,
361, 357, 363, 372, 373, 386;
illnesa and death of, 466, 576, 678,
679, 680, 681, 584

H.H. Prince Alfred of, 337, 361

Princess Augustus of (Princess

Clementine), 168

H.B.H. Marie, Duchess of, 171,
173, 182, 187, 567, 679, 680

Princess Marie of (now Dowager

Queen of Eoumania), 576
Cochrane, Hon. Minnie, 104, 386, 642
Colenso, ]3attle of, 330, 436
Collins, Sir Robert. 348
ColviUe, Sir William, 316
Connaught, H.B.H. Arthur, Duke of,

25, 26, 28, 78, 79, 82, 88, 166, 170,
182, 183, 267, 372, 373, 379, 381,
420, 422, 424, 497 , 601, 666, 617,
626 ; attends Russian coronation,
46; on strength of Guards, 116,
119, 498 ; in charge of military
arrangements for Diamond Jubilee,
178; at Privy Council, 189;
military prospects of, 191, 366 ; on
Army reform, 216 ; visit to Eranoe,
282, 313 ; and Coburg succession,
337, 347. 366, 367, 358, 360, 362,
384 ; in the Soudan, 363, 364 ; un-
willing to take a Home Command,
441 ; presses to he sent to South
Africa, 442, 444, 445, 446, 447;
appointment to Irish Command,
448 ; attends the Queen in Ireland,
521, 523, 627, 632, 634, 636, 537,
544 ; at a Drawing-rpom, 649 ;
escorts the Queen to Wellington
College, 650, 551 ; attends Duke of
Coburg’s funeral, 680 ; and office of
Commander-in-Chiof, 693, 594, 597,
603 ; visits the Queen, 618, 633,
637 ; meets Lord Roberts, 638

H.B.H. Louise, Duchess of, 26,

26, 79, 82, 88, 170, 313, 353, 354,
360, 362, 373, 420, 422, 423, 497,
621, 623, 632, 636, 644, 649, 638

H.B.H. Prince Arthur of, 184,

347, 368, 360, 363, 384, 544, 680,
618, 638

Princess Margaret of, 88, 623,

649, 638

64,7

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

Connauglit, Princess Patricia of, 88
Cork, 9tli Earl of, 172
do Conroel, Monsieur, Eronolr Am-
bassador, 22, 160, 299, 306, 316,
317, 333

Cranborne, Viscount (now 4tli Mar-
quis of Salisbury), 606, 612
Creighton, Er., Bishop of Peter-
borough, 96, 96 ; appointed to
London, 101, 102, 103, 106, 123 ;
on service at St. Paul’s, 132, 176 ;
presents address for Church

Schools, 183 ; on Diamond

JubUee, 189 ; on dissension in the
Church, 342

Crete, afiairs in, 57, 58, 73, 113, 121,
162, 220, 276 ; appointment of
Prince George of Greece, 220
Cromer, 1st Earl of, Agent-General in
Egypt, 3, 33, 43, 60, 217, 307, 426 ;
on advance into the Soudan, 33,
36, 260 I received by the Queen,
261 ; thanks the Queen for sym-
pathy, 302 ; proposed honour for,
309 ; on ill-health of troops, 320 ;
on Gordon Memorial College at
IChartoum, 332

Cronje, General, defeated at Paarde-
berg, 462, 490, 492, 493
Cross, 1st Viscount, Lord Privy Seal,
6, 661, 689, 612, 618
Cuba, insm'reotion in, 4, 44, 114;

ceded by Spain to U.S.A., 221
Ciurie, Sir Philip, Ambassador at
Constantinople, 82, 140
Cuizon, Hon. George, M.P. (created
Lord, and ultimately Marquis,
Curzon of Kedleston), 108, 183,
280 ; Viceroy of India, 225, 251,
273 ; defends Eoreign Office, 264 ;
on Government of Indian Frontier,
266 ; dines with the Queen, 316 ;
on the Queen’s example of in-
dustry, 361; on Maharajah
Holkar, 386, 393 ; on decorations
for Natives, 449, 562 ; on loyalty
and help of Native Princes, 462 ;
on famine in India, 463, 476, 610 ;
on Lnrd Eoberts’s success in South
Africa, 495 ; on employment of
Native Princes, 610, 646, 624 ; on
successor to the Commander-in-
Chief,615; on awards to Nurses, 654

Dahtmouth, 6th Earl of, 19
Davidson, Colonel (afterwards Sir A.),
108, 436, 441, 603, 504

Dr. Eandall T., Bishop of

Winchester (afterwards Arch-
bishop of Canterbury), 96, 96, 99,
104, 110, 419, 630 ; congratulates
the Queen, 77 ; at Archbishop
Benson’s funeral, 94; on Bishop
Temple’s appointment to Primacy,
98, 100; on See of London, 101,
102 ; on service at St. Paul’s, 132,
140 ; writes to the Queen on Dia-
mond Jubilee, 169 ; on Duke of
Norfolk’s memorandum on con-
vent life, 235; on Sir W. Har-
court’s letters to The Times, 335 ;
on Sunday issues of daily papers,
366

Dease, Sir Gerald and Lady, 532
Delcass6, Monsieur, French Eoreign
Minister, 220, 294, 304, 307, 308,
309, 399

Denbigh, 9th Earl of, 449, 531, 632,
634, 636

Denmark, King Christian of, 138, 139,
489

Prince Charles of, 173

Prince Waldemar of, 169

Queen of, iUnesB and death, 282,

288, 318

Devonshire, 8th Duke of, Lord
President of the CounoU, 6, 189,
210, 211 ; on Education Bill, 43 ;
on Greece, 147 ; at service at St.
George’s, Windsor, 171 ; on Army
reform, 211, 214; dines with the
Queen, 422 ; on Spion Kop des-
patches, 537

Duchess of, 171, 422, 649

De Wet, General, 454, 682, 601
Deym, Count and Countess, 388
Diamond Jubilee, 111, 112, 124,
126, 127, 129, 132, 134, 140, 142,
164, 168, 169, 170, 172-177,
182-184

Dhke, Sir Charles, 34, 236, 264, 340
DiUon, John, M.P., 266, 390, 407
Dongola, occupied by Sirdar, 3, 78, 80
Downe, CeoUia, 104, 107, 140, 226,
314, 432, 436
Dreyfus case, see France
Drew, Mrs., 146, 248, 250, 255

G48

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

Drummond, Fanny, 385
Dublin, Aichbisbop of, and Mrs.
Peacock, 636

Duflcrin and Ava, 1st Marquis of, on
Russian Imperial visit to Paris, 89 ;
on the Queen’s prestige abroad,
326 ; receives the Queen at Ifinga*
town, 621

Fames, Madame, 286
Edwards, Sir Fleetwood, 167, 169,
237, 483, 650, 635

Egerton, Mr. (afterwards Sir)
Edward, British Minister in
Athens, 164

Egypt, Khedive Abbas of, 50, 242,
261, 276, 666

Elgin, 9th Earl of. Viceroy of India,
and plague in India, 115, 120, 128,
178 j on native Chiefs at Diamond
Jubilee, 134, 135 ; on Jubileo
celebrations in India, 177 ; reports
earthquake in India, 178 ; on
frontier war in India, 216
Eliot, Dean (of Windsor), 436, 448
Ellison, Rev. J. H. E., Vioar of
Windsor, 630, 634
Enslin, battle at, 330
Erroll, Dowager Countess of, 19, 157
Esher, 2nd Visoount, vi, 371
Eugenie, formerly Empress of the
TVench, 69
Evans, Rosa, 19
Ewart, Sir H., 157

Eaue, Sir Edmund, 489
Earquhar, Sir Horace (afterwards
Earl), M.P„ 123

Eaudel-PhiUips, Sir G., Lord Mayor
of London, on Diamond Jubilee
celebrations, 121, 123 ; receives
the Queen at Temple Bar, 176
Eaure, Monsieur Eelix, French Pre-
sident, 144, 167, 240, 243, 282, 313,
331, 333, 341

Fife, Duke of, 82, 372, 649

H.R.H, Duchess of, 82, 372, 649

Firket, rout of dervishes at, 3, 50
Fisher, Admiral Sir John (afterwards
Lord), 107

Foote, Colonel F. 0. Barrington, 338,
390, 601

Forbes, Mr., 555

France, ambitions on the Upper
Nile, 72, 219, 291, 361, 366;
Dreyfus ease, 114, 222, 323,
331, 394, 396, 397, 399, 402;
Cretan question, 136 ; refuses to
intervene without Russian co-
operation, 163, 186, 161 ; dis-
astrous fire in Paris, 166, 168 ; and
occupation of Fashoda, 286, 288,
290, 299, 301, 303, 304, 306, 308,
311 ; and Queen’s visits to, 313,
316, 334, 361 ; and South African
War, 402, 410 , 432
Frederick III, German Emperor,
Queen’s regret for his death, 168,
285

French, Major-General (eventually
Field-Marshal the Earl of Ypres),
398, 452, 487, 491, 492
Fullerton, Sir J., 422, 463

GABuniEB, Sir Lyndoch, 212
Gaselee, General Sir A., 683, 684, 58d
Gataore, General Sir W., 330, 432,
623, 624

Germany, withdrawal of ships from
Crete, 220 ; increases naval
strength, 221, 456 ; and Portu-
guese African colonies, 263, 266,
267 ; Paoifio possessions, 331 ;
iE-feeling towards England, 377 ;
attitude to South AJrioan War,
440, 445, 462

Gladstone, Mrs., 93, 146, 246, 248,
250, 256

Rt. Hon. W. E., and Armenian

massacres, 4 ; and death of Arch-
bishop Benson, 90 ; meets the
Queen at Cannes, 146 ; death, 222,
246, 249, 250

Qleichen, (jountess Feodora, 33, 423
Glencoe, engagement at, 410
Glyn, Rev. Hon, E., appointed
Bishop of Peterborough, 101, 102
Godfrey, Mr. C., 293, 317, 338, 417
Gorat, Sir John, M.P., introduces
Education Bill, 38

Goschen, Rt. Hon. G. J. (afterwards
Viscount), First Lord of the Ad-
miralty, 6, 612 ; on mobilisation of
Flying Squadron, 16 ; congratu-
lates the Queen on Diamond
Jubilee, 172 ; on employment of

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

649

Naval mon inland in South Africa,
430 ; on speed of ships to the
Cape, 440 ; discusses the War -with
the Queen, 461 ; on mobilisation
of the Hleot, 475 ; impending re-
tirement, 588, 693, 600, 619
Grant, Hon. Victoria, 107, 412, 418,
422, 436, 661

Greece, war with Turkey, 113, 160,
151, 158 ; incursions of, into
Macedonia, 121, 122, 129 ; sub-
mits to Powers’ demands, 162

ICiiig of, 67, 131, 133, 138, 139,

140,144,151,166,166.157,159,162
Prince George of, appointed
High Commissioner for Crete, 318,
320 ; letter to Duke of York, 318
Greene, Mr. (afterwards Sir) W.
Conyngham, British Agent at
Pretoria, 69, 449

Grenfell, General Sir P. (afterwards
Pield-Marshal Lord), 223
Grey, 4th Earl, 98
General, vi

Grierson, Colonel (afterwards General
Sir James), Military Attachd at
Berlin. 226, 367, 473
Grove, Sir Coleridge, on Commissions
for !Bandmaaters, 312, 343
Gwalior, Maharajah Sindhia of, 463,
574

Haldane, Ht. Hon. J. B. (afterwards
Viscount), 408

Halsbury, Lord (afterwards 1st Earl
of). Lord Chancellor, 6, 182 ; dines
with the Queen, 483
Hambro, Mr. E. A., 123
Hamilton, Lord George, Indian
Secretary, 6, 118, 127, 196, 298,
574 ; on Indian honours, 109, 246 ;
on Native Princes at Diamond
Jubilee, 134 ; on frontier fighting
in India, 299, 200, 202 ; on India
Office Minutes, 282 , 304

Sir Edward, 349

Hanhury, Bt. Hon. B., 612
Hanotaux, Monsieur, Ekenoh Foreign
Minister, 149, 165
Hanover, Queen of, 146
Harcourt, Bt. Hon. Sir William,
M.P., 3, 55 , 63, 73, 127, 182, 193,
408; attacks Cecil Ehodes, 49;

congratulates the Queen, 80 ; on
the Queen’s Garden Party for
M.P.s, 187, 188 ; on the Soudan,
220; and the Liberal leadership,
222; attacks Mr. Chamberlain, 254;
moves amendment to the Address,
480

Harrington, Colonel, 309, 315, 394
Hatzfeldt, Count, German Am-
bassador, 13, 18, 21, 22, 269, 263,
268, 322, 399

Helena, H.B.H. Princess (Princess
Christian), 32, 166, 188, 187, 238,
240, 245, 257 , 314, 317 , 366, 367,
360, 373, 420, 426, 426, 604, 607,
616, 645, 647, 567, 579, 684, 598,
618, 619, 631, 633, 636, 637, 638,
640, 641, 642; at the Diamond
Jubilee, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174,
178 ; accompanies the Queen to Ire-
land, 621, 523, 524, 627, 530, 631,
534, 636, 644 ; attends a Drawing-
room, 649 ; distress at Duke of
Coburg’s death, 580 ; grief at death
of her son, 613, 614, 617

Victoria, Princess, daughter

of Prince Christian, 19, 82, 171,
261, 314, 316, '317, 361, 356, 426,
448, 603, 604, 606, 615, 545, 647,
640, 667 , 683, 613, 614, 618, 630,
632, 633, 636, 636, 637, 638
Hesse, Ernest, Grand Duke of, 173,
373

Grand Duchess of, 173, 373

Hohenzollem, Prince Leopold of, 240
Holkar, Maharajah, 228, 386
Hopetouu, 7th Earl of (afterwards 1st
MarcLuisofLlnlithgow), 316,455,566
How, Dr. Walsham, Bishop of Wake-
field, 148, 171
Howe, 4th Earl, 176
Hughes, Hon. Mary, 647
Humbert, King of Italy, attempt on
life of, 152 ; assassination, 466,
578, 679

Humphrey, Private James, 530
Hyderabad, H.H. the Nizam of, 199

Impbkial Conference of 1897, 111
India, oonditions in, m 1897,113, 127 ;
Government of North-West Fron-
tier, 260 ; sends troops to South
Africa, 329

650

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

Ireland, land purchase in, 4 ; Local
Qovemmentj o£, 222 ; Queen’s
visit to, 453, 497, 600, 601, .506,
521, 624, 527, 630, 631, 534, 636,
643

Irving, Sir Henry, 185
Italy, aided by British in Abyssinia,
3, 33, 37

Iveagh,Lord (afterwards Earl of), 123

Jaitob, Maharajah of, 610
James of Hereford, Lord, 6 , 237 ;
sympathy with Greece on Cretan
question, 133 ; on Lord Salisbury,
136, 606 ; guest of the Queen, 598
Jameson, Dr., raids the Transvaal,
1, 2, 6, 8, 107, 112, 167, 328 ;
arrangements for trial of, 27 ;
releaaed from prison, 106, 107
Japan, Emperor Mutsuhito of, 693

ftinoe Kotohito of, 547

Jenner, Sir Wdliam, 317

Kaitiethala, Maharajah of, 613
Xekewich, Colonel, besieged in Kim-
berley, 330, 481
Kerr, Captain E., 409, 433
Khalifa, the, 219, 272, 274, 276, 281,
308,331,425

Khartoum, occupied by Sirdar, 219,
274

Kimberley, siege of, 330, 452, 487,
489

lat Earl of, 182

Kintore, 10th Earl of, 104, 645, 547,
549

Kitchener, General Sir Herbert (after-
wards Keld-Marshal Earl), Sirdar
in Egypt, 3, 60, 52, 58. 104, 218,
261, 300, 307, 309, 314, 388, 618,
634, 639, 641 ; capture of Dongola,
80, 82 ; recovers the Soudan, 219 ;
offered peerage by the Queen, 219,
283, 287 ; receives Ereedom of
Qty of London, 220 ; victory at
Atbara, 241, 243 ; victory at
Omdumian, 272 ; oongratnlated
by tbe Queen, 273 ; occupation of
Khartoum, 274 ; at Eashoda,
276 ; received by the Queen, 307,
308 ; trouble with Abyssinia, 316,
450 ; on Gordon Memorial College

at Khartoum, 326, 461 ; on re-
mains of the Mahdi, 352 ; on
Khalifa’s defeat, 426 ; in South
Africa as Chief-of-Stufi, 330, 436,
437 , 439, 442, 446 , 446, 460, 486,
503 ; at the Gape, 462 , 469 , 483,
492 ; takes over command, 454,
631 ; superintends arrangement of
troops, 606 ; informs the Queen of
affairs in South Africa, 668 ; pur-
sues Ds Wet, 582 ; on Command-
in-Ghief, India, 617 ; promotion,
622 ; visits wounded, 632

Elondyke, gold rush at, 112

KnoEys, Sir Erancis (afterwards
Viscount), 7

Korea, Emperor Hiung of, 573, 586

Kruger, Paul, President of the Trans-
vaal, and Uitlanders’ grievances,
1, 2, 10, 23, 221, 328, 329, 382 ;
and the Jameson Raid, 1, 9, 11,
19, 26; refuses to visit England,
1, 50; German Emperor’s tele-
gram to, 2, 7 ; demands trial of
Cecil Rhodes, 63 ; visits President
Steyn, 112 ; denies British suzer-
ainty, 221, 328 ; responsibility for
South African War, 397 ; proposes
peace terms, 463, 603 ; takes
refuge with his troops, 464, 606,
564; flees to Europe, 454, 688,
689, 618 ; refused audience by
German Emperor, 454 ; prolongs
tbe war, 559

Labouoheeb, Henry, M.P., 193, 390,
407

Ladysmith, siege of, 330 , 452, 453,
458, 469, 473, 494, 496, 497, 527,
646

Laking, Sir Erancis, 269, 629, 640

Lambton, Captain Hon. Hcdworth
(afterwards Admiral Sir H, Mens),
430, 627, 545. 590

Lamsdorff, Count, Russian Eoreign
Minister, 574

Lang, Rev. 0, G. (now Archbishop of
Canterbury), 227

Lansdowne, Marchioness of, 418, 422,
624

6th Marquis of, War Secre-
tary, 6, 166, 300, 432 ; on
officers in Jameson Raid, -64, 65,

651

INDEX TO

/) 6 , 67, 70, 252 ; ohangea names of i
regiments, 133 ; and Adjutant- ■
Genoraloy, 143 ; on policy towards
Greece, 147 ; on Sir W. Lockhart
as Oommander-in-Ohief, India,
196 ; Indian pnnoea for Order of
the Bath, 246 ; on Army Band-
masters, 294 , 317 ; on duties of
Oommandcr-in-Ohief, 346, 347,
364, 361, 363, 675; on Expedition-
ary force for South Africa, 395 , 407;
dines with the Queen, 418, 422 ;
on Delagoa Bay, 428 ; on Buller’a
suggestion to abandon Ladysmith,
’435 ; and changes in command in
South Africa, 436 ; on appoint-
ment for the Duke of Connaught,
442, 443 ; overworked, 446 ;

measures for increasing Army,
470, 478 ; on casualties, 473 ; on
Veteran battalions, 488 ; suggests
creation of Irish Guards, 498 ; on
the Queen in Ireland, 623 ; and
Spion Kop despatches, 653, 636,
638, 841 ; on war medals, 574 ; on
presentation of colours to Colonial
Forces, 687, 688 ; Portuguese offer
to intercept Boer supplies, 691 ;
remaining at tho War OfBoe, 695,
697 ; on Lord Eoberts’s appoint-
ment as Commander-in-Chlef, 697 ;
becomes Foreign Secretary, 454,
604, 606, 607, 611, 612 , 015 ; sym-
pathy with the Queen on death of
Prince Christian Victor, 614
Lasoelles, Lady, 148
Sir Frank, British Ambas-
sador in Berlin, 43, 138, 323, 343,
609, 612, 530 ; thanks the Queen
for sympathy on death of his wife,
148 ; on Bussian support for
France against England, 300 ; on
visit of German Emperor to Eng-
land, 321, 359 ; on Emperor’s
friendly attitude, 322 ; dines with
the Queen, 418 ; praised by Ger-
man Emperor, 424
Lathom, 2nd Earl of, 182, 195
Laurier, Mr. (afterwards Sir) Wilfrid,
Premier of Canada, 3, 112, 420 ;
comes to England for Diamond
Jubilee, 167 ; sworn in as Privy
Councillor, 189

VOL. Ill

Leggo, Colonel, 385, 436, 449, 603,
604, 645 , 550
Leighton, Lord, 106
Leinmgen, Princess Marie of, 421,
422, 424, 451

Leopold II, King of the Belgians, and
the Upper Nile, 24, 73, 349 ; visits
the Queen, 165, 240 ; congratu-
lates the Queen on success of her
troops, 490, 499 ; sends the Queen
reports on Sipido affair, 609
Li Hung Ohang, 59, 60, 63, 565, 572,
684

Lister, Mr. (afterwards Sic) Reginald,
conveys news of President Fame’s
death, 341

Sir J. (afterwards Lord), 108,

123

Lloyd George, David, M.P., 114, 482,
668

Lobaneff, Prince, Russian Foreign
Minister, 3, 36, 48, 57, 68, 72 , 102
Lockhart, Sir William, appointment
as Oommander-in-Ohief, India, 196,
201, 216, 227, 261, 295, 646
Logue, Cardinal, 632
Londonderry, 6th Marquis of, 123,
183, 612

Long, Bt. Hon. Walter (afterwards
Viscount), 6, 638, 612
Lome, Marquis of (afterwards 9th
Duke of Argyll), 171, 184, 185, 373,
420, 421, 467

Loubet, Monsieur, French President,
331, 342, 360

Louise, H.Ri.H. Princess, Marchioness
of Lome (afterwards Duchess of
Argyll), 28, 146, 170, 171, 185, 187,
373, 421, 423, 426, 426, 467
Lucan, Earl and Countess of, 532, 630
Lugard, Colonel F. (now Lord), High
Commissioner of Northern Nigeria,
427

Lurgan, Lord and Lady, 635
Lytton, Edith, Countess of, 152, 316,
472, 614

MAoConMAO, Sir WiUiam, 123, 259,
262, 465

Macdonald, Annie, 168, 187 , 218
MacDonald, Sir Claude, British Min-
ister in Pekin, 465, 559, 561, 669,
570, 571, 572, 684, 586

652

INDEX TO VOL. IH

McDonnell, Hon. (afterwards Sir)
Sckomberg, on desirability of
meeting between Emperor of Rus-
sia and Lord Salisbury, 68, 71, 74 ;
on Diamond Jubilee, 106, 106 ;
on Lord Rosebery and South
African War, 406

McKinley, President, of U.S.A., 4,
76, 104, 114

McNeill, Sir John, 314, 316, 483
Mafeking, siege of, 330, 463, 477, 482,
520, 660

Magersfontein, Battle of, 330, 432
Majendie, Hon. Aline, 308, 657
Malet, Lady Ermyntrude, 163, 314

Sir Edward, 314

Mallet, Hon. Mrs. (afterwards Lady),
308, 603, 604, 614

Marohand, Monsieur, establishes him-
self at Eashoda, 219, 285, 286, 288,
290, 300, 303, 306, 307, 308
Maigherita, Queen of Italy, 67
Marlborough, Duke and Duchess of,
386

Martin, Sir Theodore, reports on his
confidential mission from the
Queen to the Press, 224 ; death of
Lady Martin, 307
Matabeleland, rising in, 1, 38, 97
Meath, Earl of, 621
Meoklenburg-Strelitz, Grand Duke
and Duchess of, 173, 186
Methuen, General Lord (afterwards
Pield-Marshal), 86, 330, 423, 424,
427, 432, 557
Metternich, Count, 607
Millais, Sir John, 106
Miller, Mr., 293, 317, 338
Milne, Sir Alexander, death, 110
Milner, Sir Alfred (afterwards Vis-
count), Governor of the Cape and
High Commissioner, 112, 128, 383 ;
dines with the Queen, 314 j on
Uitlanders’ grievances, 328 ; for-
wards congratulations to the
Queen, 370 ; on German ofiioers in
Transvaal, 468; helps to raise
Colonial troops, 465 ; forwards
loyal messages to the Queen, 513,
666 ; on ladies visiting South
Africa, 520 ; on name of Trans-
vaal, 670 ; on South African War
medals, 574

Miiito,4lh Earl of, Governor- Gonoral
of Canada, 291, 315 ; on Canada and
the South African War, 414, 419
Modder River, Battle of, 330, 427
Monson, Sir Edmund, British Am-
bassador in Parts, 144, 163, 164,
220, 288, 366; on death of
Duchesse d’Aleufon, 166 ; dines
with the Queen, 237 ; presentation
to President Eaure, 240 ; question
of honour for, 266 ; on Russian
support of Erance in Egypt, 299,
301 ; on Erenoh and Eashoda, 308 ;
on afiection of Erenoh people for
the Queen, 313, 361 ; interview
with President Eaure, 333 ; on
anti-British feeling in Eranoo, 392 ;
on Dreyfus case, 399, 401
Montenegro, Prince of, 67, 248
Montrose, 6th Duke of, 535
Moor, Sir Ralph, High Commissioner
of Southern Nigeria, 427
Moore, Hon. Evelyn, 110, 613
Morley, Bt. Hon. John (afterwards
Viscount), 3, 222, 408 ; biographer
of Gladstone, 296, 302
Mount Edgeumbe, 4th Earl of, 140
Mouraviell, Monsieur, Russian For-
eign Minister, 114, 166, 299, 393,
499, 603, 612, 574
Murray, Colonel Robert, 242, 243
Muther, Mr., 167

Natles, Prince of (now King of
Italy), 174, 681

Princess of (now Queen of

Italy), 185

Netherlands, Emma Queen-Regent
of, 127, 276 ; lunches with the
Queen, 245 ; informs the Queen of
her daughter’s engagement, 605

Queen Wilhelmma of, coming

of age, 222, 272, 276 ; receives
Victorian Order, 245; on imminence
of war in South Africa, 394
Noel, Admiral Sir Gerald, 220
Norfolk, 1 5th Duke of, 123, 227, 228,
260 ; On oonditiona of life in con-
vents, 232 ; serves in South Africa,
617, 658

O’CoifOB, Sir Nicholas, British Am-
bassador in St. Petersburg, and
afterwards in Constantinople, re-

ilNJJjUiA. iU \KJXj, ill

ports catastrophe at Tsar’a corona-
tion, d.6, 49 ; on Indian pilgrims to
Mecca, 297

Olncy, Mr., American Secretary of
State, 66, 74, 97, 103
Omdnrman, Battle of, 219

Paabdbbbkq, Battle at, 452
Pagenateoher, Prof,, 68, 360, 647
Parratt, Sir Walter, 665
Pembroke, 14tli Earl of, 182, 260, 647
Perponcher, Countess, 314, 316
Persia, the Prince of, 173
Phipps, Hon. Harriet, 19, 226, 386,
.549, 633, 636, 642
pile, Thomas Devereur (afterwards
Sir), Lord Mayor of Dublin, 622, 568
Pollock, Rev. Bertram (now Bishop
of Norwich), 560

Ponsonby, Rt. Hon. Sir Frederick,
308, 545

Bt. Hon. Sir Henry, vi

Portland, 6th Duke of, receives
G.C.V.O., 44

Portugal, arbitrates on possession of
Trinidad, 60 ; on intercepting
Boer supplies, 68S

Bang Carlos of, 495, 661, 598

Poynter, Sir Edward, 106
Prinslojj, General, surrender of, 464,
678, 682
Profeit, Dr., 126

Prussia, Prince Henry of, 37, 114

Princess Henry of, 37, 170,

186, 690

DB Ramsey, Lady, 316
Eanfurly, 6th Earl of. Governor of
New Zealand, 229, 231 ; on N.Z.
and the South African War, 413
Redmond, John, M.P., on Queen’s
visit to Ireland, 606
Reid, Sir James, 259, 619, 633, 640

Hon. Whitelaw, on friendship

of United States for England, 189
de Reszke, Jean and Edouard, 256,
267, 373

Rhodes, Rt. Hon. Cecil, Prime Min-
ister of Cape Colony, and the
Jameson Raid, 1, 8, 9, 42, 49, 53,
107, 111, 167, 194; on relations
with Germany, 349 ; in Kimberley
siege, 489

Colonel Erank, 2, 64, 67, 262

Ridley, Sir Matthew White (after-
wards Visooimt), Home Secretary,

_6, 80, 74, 110, 124, 164, 612, 618
Ripon, Bishop of (Dr. Boyd Car-
penter), 100, 237, 418
Ritchie, Rt. Hon. Charles T. (after-
wards Lord), 6, 30, S2, 35, 612, 621

Mr. (afterwards Sir) Richmond,

267, 270, 304

Roberta, Lady (afterwards Countess),
440, 477, 529

— Lieutenant F., 439, 440, 467 , 468

General Lord (afterwards Field-

Marshal Earl), 471, 472, 476, 480,
489, 495, 503, 505, 656, 558, 561,
574, 618, 623, 624, 629 ; his charger
decorated, 44 ; commands Colonial
forces at Diamond Jubilee, 166,
186 ; on appointment of Com-
mander-in-Chief, India, 196 ; ap-
pointed C.-in-C. in South Africa,
330, 436, 437, 439, 441, 442, 447 ;
received by the Queen, 422, 445 ;
thanks the Queen for sympathy,
440 ; averse to Duke of Con-
naught’s going to South Africa,
446 ; Lord Kitchener’s pleasure
at serving rmder, 450 j organises
transport and raises Colonial forces,
462, 466 , 466 ; captures General
Cronje, 452, 492, 493 ; advances
into Orange Free State, 463, 469,
483, 611 ; captures Johannesburg
and Pretoria, 454, 657, 668 ; ap-
pointed Commander-in-Chief, 464,
592, 693, 694, 695, 696, 597, 599,
600 ; and his Generals, 460, 486,

486, 623, 524, 525, 526, 634, 637,
541, 642; reports situation in
South Africa to the Queen, 464,

487, 804, 506, 528, 664, 571, 678,
681, 600 ; German Emperor’s
opinion of, 519 ; and Boer supplies
through Portuguese territory, 689,
591 ; refuses to be Secretary for
Wat, 605 ; illaess of his daughter,
616, 618; on duties of Com
maader-in-Chief, 616; arrival ir
England, 637, 638, 639 ; received
by the Queen, 638, 639, 642

Bobinson, Sir Hercules (afterwards
Lord Rosmead), High Commis-
sioner for South Africa, 1, 6, 9, 10,

654

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

11, 12, 19, 23, 38, 39, 40, 66, 68,
69, 128

Kodd , Sir Rennell, 667
Rogers, Rev. J. Guinaeaa, 123
Roodeval, defeat at, 464
Rosebery, 6th Earl of, resigns leader-
ship of Liberal Party, 4, 107, 371 ;
at St. George’s, Windsor, 171 ;
congratulates the Queen, 180 ; on
honours for non-Christian sover-
eigns, 203 ; on policy in Soudan,
220 ; sees IVIr. Gladstone, 245 ;
writes to Press on outbreak of
South African War, 329, 408 ; asks
the Queen for lock of her hair, 374 ;
Queen’s drives through London, 512
Rosse, Earl and Countess of, 536
Rothschild, Baron Eerdinand, 259

, 1st Inrd, 123, 183

Rowton, Lord, 123, 459, 460, 461
Rumbold, Sir Horace, British Am-
bassador in Vienna, 277
Russia, unfriendly attitude towards
England, 39, 43, 201 ; occupies
Port Arthur, 114, 221, 238 ; policy
conoetning Crete, 131, 135, 140,
144, 166, 226, 276, 279; obtains
rights for Manchurian Railway,
221 ; increases naval strength,
221 ; and Preach action in Egypt,
299, 300, 301, 303, 312 ; and inter-
vention in South African War, 627

Emperor Nicholas U of, 39, 48,

72, 88, 181, 341 ; coronation, 3,
46, 40 ; tout of European capitals,
3, 73 ; visits the Queen at Bal-
moral, 78, 82, 87 ; and the Sultan,
81, 82, 109 ; discusses foreign
relations with the Queen, 85 ; and
British, in Egypt, 102 ; entertains
the Kaiser, and President Paince,
114 ; agrees to Conference of Am-
bassadors, 154 ; withdraws from
Conference, 166, 161 ; intervenes
in Greco -Turkish War, 164 ; in-
vites Powers to Peace Conference,
221, 331 ; thanks the Queen for
sympathy on death of Grand Duke
George, 387 ; sympathy with the
Queen in South African War, 438,
439, 445, 461

Empress of, 3, 45, 46, 48, 78, 82,

87, 88, 90, 181

Russia, Empress-Mother of, 39

Grand Duchess Elisabeth of,

170, 173, 186

Grand Duke Sorgo of, 48, 173,

186

Salisbuby, Marchioness of, 137, 146,
166, 208, 260, 284, 367, 386, 391,
392, 421

3rd Marquis of, Prime Minister,

and British policy in the Soudan, 3,
33, 36, 39, 41, 50, 68, 81, 217, 220,
260,281 ; and Armenian massacres,
4, 22 ; third Ministry of, Q ; on
affairs in South Africa, 12, 42, 382,
384,387,393,394,305,400,401; on
German Ambassador’s attitude to
Transvaal question, 13, IS ; on the
German Emperor, 20, 24 ; on Eng-
land and the Triple Alliance, 21 , 22 ;
on the King of the Belgians, 24 ; on
the Royal Victorian Order, 27 ;
suggests reply to Queen Regent of
Spain, 46 ; on Education Bill, 63,
64 ; oil Sir H. Robinson, 66, 68 ;
on enquiry into Chartered Com-
pany, 66 ; policy regarding Crete,
58, 130, 131, 133, 146, 276, 279,
281, 282, 284; on situation in
Zanzibar, 71 ; Prench designs on
the Upper Nile (Pashoda), 72, 288,
290, 291, 204, 299, 300, 301, 303,
306, 308, 311, 361 ; policy regard-
ing Turkey, 84, 86, 113 ; relations
with Germany, 87, 268, 269, 202,
358, 392 ; on Indian peerages, 90 ;
on appointment to Primacy, 94,
90 ; appointments to Soos of
London and Peterborough, 201 ;
on Venezuelan houndary, 103 ; dis-
cusses New Year honours with the
Queen, 108 ; on arrangements for
Diamond Jubilee, 108, 125, 127 ;
policy towards Greece, 122, 129,
130, 136, 139, 149 ; on inorease of
Guards’ battalions, 130 ; on em-
ployment of Rafiuddin Ahmed,
143 ; and attitude of the Powers
to Greco-Turkish war, 151, 164,
165 ; proposes Conference of Am-
bassadors, 162, 154 ; orders war-
ship to the Pir»u8, 166; on
Queen’s telegrams to German

INDEX. TO VUJL. ili

000

Emperor, 159, 609 ; on English. '
intervention in Greoo-Turkish
War, 161 ; on peaoo psoposols, 102 ;
submits HiamondJubilGe Honours,

166 ; presents special ambassadors
and envoys to the Queen, 173 ;
congratulates the Quoon, 179 ;
on Victorian Order for the Kmg
of Spain, 179, 1S6 ; declines
Victorian Order, 184 ; on military
prospects of Duke of Connaught,
192 ; and King of Siam, 194, 195,
197 ; on representative of the
Ameer in London, 198 ; on visit
of Duke and Duoliess of York to
Ireland, 198 ; on Indian affairs,
201, 206, 206, 260 ; on attitude of
Eussia to England, 201 ; suggests
Duke of Buoclouoh for Garter,

206 ; on death of Duchess of Took,

207 ; and Army reform, 212, 214,
223 ; neutrality in Spanish- Amer-
ican War, 221, 239, 244; on
selection of Viceroy of India, 226,
251 ; on Mr. Gladstone’s funeral,
260 ; relations with Erance, 266,
392 ; ordered abroad for his
health, 261, 284; on Portuguese
African Colonies, 263 ; on Gibral-
tar, 264, 270, 279, 300 ; on peerage
for Sir H. Kitohener, 275 ; on ap-
pointment of Monsieur Gambon,
283 ; on anarchists, 294, 621 ;
on visit of German Emperor, 312 ;
dines with the Queen, 316 ; on
War Office reform, 320 ; and the
Azores, 322 ; on the Queen’s safety
in Erance, 334 ; on duties of Com-
mander-in-Chiof, 346, 364, 375 ;
on Cohvirg succession, 356 ; on
Maharajah Holkar, 365 ; on )Snn-
day issues of daily papers, 367,
370 ; memorandum on Govern-
ment’s action in Samoa, .379
Lady Salisbury’s illness and death.
386, 392, 394, 421; on Dreyfus
case, 394, 397 ; on increased taxa-
tion, 409 ; thanks the Queen for
her sympathy, 422 ; on blockade
of Delagoa Bay, 431 ; on appoint-
ment for Duke of Connaught, 444
445, 446, 448; on posthumous
bestowal of Victoria Cross, 447 ;

confirmed in power at General
Election of 1900, 454, 603 ; re-
linquishes Eoi'cigu Office to Lord
Lansdowne, 454, 604, 611 ; on
Germans fighting with the Boers,
458 ; on enquiry into conduct of
the war, 461, 623, 639 ; on opera-
tions in South Africa, 469 ; on use
of the Queen’s name for recruiting,

481 ; on employment of Indian
troops, 486, 487 ; on appointment
of Lord Kitohener, 486 ; respon-
sible for Sir B. BuUer’s appoint-
ment, 486 ; on the Queen’s visit
to Ireland, 502 ; refuses German
Emperor’s suggestion of media-
tion, 607 ; on Cabinet and Generals
on active service, 523 , 625 ; ad-
vises visit of Duke of York to Ger-
many, 630 ; on publication of
Spion Kop despatches, 534., 636,
638 ; on relief of Mafekiug, 563 ;
on form of Government in South
Africa, 667 ; on measures of de-
fence in China, 600, 661, 663, 570,
572, 573 ; on Lord Hopetoun’s
appointment to Australia, 567 ;
on entry of Allies into Pekin, 684 ;
on proposed Dissolution, 686 ;
accepts Portuguese oSer to inter-
cept Boer supplies, 689 ; on
Mr. Goschen’s resignation, 590,
600 ; question of Admiral at head
of Admiralty, 690 ; suggests Lord
Roberts as Commander-in-Chief,
592, 596 ; on a Military Secretary
of State for War, 699 ; on redis-
tribution of Cabinet offices, 604,
611 ; discusses current affairs
with the Queen, 624
Samoa, settlement of ownership of,
331, 358, 359, 376, 379, 416, 419,
424

Sandeman, Mr. A„ 123
Sanderson, Sir Thomas (afterwards
Lord), 547

Schreiner, Ifr. William, Premier of
Cape Colony, 221, 329, 383
Scott, Sir Charles, British Minister at
Copenhagen, and afterwards Am-
bassador at St. Petersburg, 138,
312, 393, 438, 446, 461
Colonel Sir Exanois, 7 , 18, 20

660

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

lates Sir G. Wiiite and Sir E.
BuUer, 496 ; on ahamrook on
St, Patrick’a Day, 601 ; drives
througk London, 453, 603 ;
authorises formation of Irish
Guards, 453, 498, 505; visit
to Ireland, 453, 497 , 600,
501, 506, 621, 624, 627, 530,
531, 534, 636, 543 ; thanks
German Emperor for his views
on the war, 503 ; reviews
Grenadier and Scots Guards,
506 ; on German mediation,
607, 509 ; approves German
Emperor’s reply to Boer Gov-
ernment’s request for his inter-
vention, 508 ; repUes to loyal
message of Cape Irishmen, 614 ;
on ladies visiting South Africa,
520,629; on supersession of cer-
tain ofihcers, 624, 626 ; inspects
officers and crew of H.M.S.
Powtrful, 627, 645 ; concern at
Spion Kop despatches, 533, 534,
636, 638, 639 ; receives Sir G.
White, 344; receives Prince
Kotohito, 547 ; begs Prince of
Wales not to go to Paris
Exhibition, 648 ; on Birthday
Honours, 652 ; pleasure at
relief of Mafeking, 353 ; her
eighty-first birthday, and con-
gratulations, 655, 556 ; failmg
health of, 466, 666, 567, 676,
690, 616, 618, 619, 624, 627,
632, 633, 637 ; anxiety owing
to ;^xer Rising in Chiha, 559,
561, 563, 689, 570 ; on treat-
ment of British prisoners by
Boers, 562 ; receives the
Khedive, 666 ; presents cup
to City of Duhlin, 668 ; on
Commission on conditions of
hospitals in South Africa, 568 ;
approves of khaki for the
Army, 673 ; on Maharajah of
Gwalior’s gift of hospital ship,
574 ; on South African War
medals, 576 ; grief at death of
Alfred, Duke of Coburg, 576,
578, 679 ; discusses Dissolution
with Mr. Balfour, 678 ; assas-

on Allies’ entry into Pekin, 683 ;
on proposed visit of Duke and
Duchess of York to Australasia,
587 ; on presentation of colours
to Colonial forces, 688 ; on
visits of Indian Princes to
England, 688 ; and intercep-
tion of Boer supplies, 689 ;
regrets Mr. Gosohen's retire-
ment, 591 ; on appointment of
Lord Roberts as Commander-
in-Chief, 593, 594, 603 ; on
sanitary condition of Windsor,
607 ; on Sipido affair, 609 ;
discusses Cabinet changes with
Lord Salisbury, 611 ; dis-
tress at illness and death of
Prince Christian Victor, 613,
614, 615 ; takes leave of Mr.
Gosohen, 619 ; inspects Colon-
ial troops, 620, 626 ; on Mr.
St. J. Brodrick, 624 ; receives
Maharanee of Baroda and
Lord and Lady Ainpthill, 627 ;
thanks Lord Wolseley for his
services, 627 ; on pension for
Lord Wolseley and pay of
O.-in-C., 628, 6Z9; approves
Proclamation thanking Militia,
630, 631 ; sees Lord Salisbury,
631

1901 Confers Garter and an Earldom
on Lord Roberts, 638 ; sees
Mr, Chamberlain, 641 ; sees
Lord Roberts, 642 ; last illness
of, 642 ; death of, 642
Vivian, Hon. Dorothy (now Countess
Haig), 647

Waldbok-Roussbau, Monsieur, 331
Waldegrave, 9th Earl, 182
Wales, H.E.H. the Prince of (after-
wards H.M. King Edward VII),
69, 173, 175, 182, 183, 195, 348,
380,656,686,593 ; on the Kaiser’s
telegram to President Kruger, 7 ;
and British relations with Russia,
72 ; and visit of Emperor and
Empress of Russia, 72, 73, 78,
82 ; London Hospital Scheme for
Diamond Jubilee, 123 ; against
proposed visit of German Emperor,

TOC ■n^o-.viovorl

661

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

Jubilee procession, 140 ; ap-
poinied Grand Master of the Order
of the Bath, 169 ; deputises for the
Queen at Diamond Jubilee cere-
monies, 169, 177 ; honour for ICing
of Siam, 194 ; with the Queen re-
ceives President of Drench Ee-
publiQ, 243 ; attends Mr. Glad-
stone’s funeral, 260 ; accident to,
269, 260, 261, 311 ; visits the
Queen on her eightieth birthday,
372, 373 ; goes to Marienbad, 391 ;
helps the Queen to entertain the
German Emperor, 420, 422 ; and
'Erenoh Exhibition, 432, 617 ; on
commandin South Africa, 442, 447;
shot at by anarchist in Brussels, '
466, 623 ; on German Emperor’s
Memorandum on South African
War, 483 ; warned by German Em-
peror of Mouraviefi’s designs, 499 ;
on Queen’s visit to Ireland, 600 ;
on Queen’s telegrams to German
Emperor, 609 j on Spion Kop
despatohes, 640 ; suggests Sir E.
Semon should see the Duke of
Coburg, 678 j death aud funeral of
the Duke of Coburg, 680
Wales, H.E.H. the Princess of (after-
wards H.M. Queen Aloxandi'a), 82,
144, 166, 173, 174, 182, 183, 196,
391, 420, 423, 424, 600, 623, 666,
630 ; begs the Queen to intervene
between Turkey and Greece, 168 ;
at Garden Party, 186, 672;
summoned to Denmark, 262 ;
death of her mother, 288 ; visits
the Queen on her eightieth birth-
day, 372, 373 ; drives through
London with the Queen, 606 ;
attends a Drawing-room, 649

H.E.H. Princess Louise of, see

Eife, H.E.H. Duohesa of
H.E.H. Princess Maud of (after-
wards Queen of Norway), 391

I H.E.H. Princess Victoria of, 82,

372, 373, 391, 422, 424, 649
Waller, Dr., 183

Warburton, Sir Eobert, 264, 265, 296
Warre, Eev. E., Headmaster of Eton,
36, 184, 372

Warren, General Sir Charles, 40, 53S,

Watts, G. E., R.A., 167
Wauchope, General, 432, 433
Woi-hai-wei, lease of, obtained by
British Government, 221, 238
Welch, Mr. Kemp, 183
Wernher, Mr. (afterwards Sir) Julius,
123

Westminster, Ist Duke of, 123, 124
White, Sir George, in India, 196, 200,
201, 227 ; appointed Adjutant-
General, 195 ; sent to Natal, 329,
397, 398, 403, 406, 412 ; besieged
in Ladysmith, 330, 463, 458, 460,
496, 603 ; dines with the Queen,
544

Mr. Henry, 231

Lady, 419, 468, 496, 546

Sir William, 464

Wilks, Dr., 123

William II, German Emperor, and
his telegram to President Kruger,
2, 7, 19, 20 ; confers Order of Red
Eagle on Colonel Swaine, 29 ;
sends Christmas Greetings to the
Queen, 109, 444; sympathy on
death of Sir Alex Maine, 110 ;
antipathy of, towards Greece, 135,
136, 138, 139, 146, 160, 198, 220 ;
on death of Lady Lasoelles, 148 ;
on intervention for Greece, 159,
160, 162 ; visits Constantinople
and the Holy Land, 222, 300, 311 ;
inspeots H.M.S. liahigh, 267 ;
friendliness for England, 268, 300,
312, 340, 360, 368, 359, 421, 424,
619 ; congratulates the Queen on
Omdurmon, 274; inspects Medi-
terranean Squadron, 311 ; respect
for the Queen, 321 ; on Erance and
Russia, 323, 343 ; visits Windsor,
331, 420, 421, 422, 423, 424, 426 ;
and Cecil Rhodes, 350, 369, 376 ;
and the Coburg succession, 366,
367, 363 ; and Samoa, 368, 376,
416 ; dislike of Lord Salisbury and
Mr. Chamberlain, 36S, 376 ; on
accident to the Empress, 388, 389 ;
wins the Queen’s Cup at Cowes,
390 ; refuses audience to Mi.
Kruger, 464 ; on German officers in
Soutti Africa, 474; Memorandum on
South African War, 483; onreliefof
Kim berley, 489 ; on mediation in

662

INDEX TO VOL. Ill

South African War , 607, 608, 612,
619 ; ■warns the Queen of proposed
intervention of Russia and Erance,
510, 627 j on Lord Roberts, 619;
on education of Duke of Albany,
626 ; oongratnlatea Prince of
Wales On his escape, 635 ; on
Grosm Prince’s ooming-of-age,
648 ; congratulates the Queen on
her iDirthda^, 6'54 sends fleet and
troopg'fo, Ohii'i:a,.66&-j attacked by
a mji'd \y6man, 62l ^ ' '■

Wingate, Major (no-w' Oencral Sir
R^inald), 68, 285,. 300, 437, 667 ;
hecbalea Sirdar, 331, 442 ; defeats
Khalifa, 426, 428

WolS, 'Sij H'. Drummond, British
Ambassador in Madrid, 184, 264,
269, 270, 271, 300

Wolseley, F.-M, Viscount, Oom-
mander-in-Ohief ,on affairs inSouth
Africa, 14 ; and Ashanti, 15 ; dis-
trusts fellaheen soldier, 43; on
relations of Indian and British
Armies, 61 ; congratulates the
Queen, 82 ; on additional Guards
battalions, 116 ; and Diamond
Jubilee arrangements, 143 ; on
Army reform, 214, 216, 344,
346, 355, 364; on Army Band-
masters, 313; on South African Ex-
peditionary Force, 397, 402, 411,
418, 433 ; dines -with the Queen,
422 ; on conduct of South African
War, 432, 469, 473 ; and changes
of command in South Africa, 436,
437, 441 ; and appointment for
Duke of Ckinnaught, 442, 444, 448 ;
retires from office of O.-in-O., 454;
on raising Veteran battalions, 481,
489 ; on Spion Kop despatches,
534, 640, 643 ; on promotion of
Colonel Baden-Powell, 649; on
South African War medals, 676 ;
averse to disembodiment of Militia,
623 ; bids farewell to Queen, 626

Wyndham, Rt. Hon. George, M.P.,
473, 667, 668, 612, 624

Yobk, H.R.H. the Duchess of (now
H.M. Queen Mary), 182, 183, 262,
266, 371, 619, 667, 690, 626;
visits the Queen, 79, 82, 283, 373,
421, 493, 649, 629, 630 ; visit to Ire-
land, 198 ; the Queen’s opinion of,
202, 351 ; death of her mother,
207 ; death of her father, 464

H.R.H. George, Duke of (now

H.M. King George V), 69, 182, 183,
196, 202, 371, 600, 666, 667 ; birth-
day, 48, 251 ; -visits the Queen, 79,
82, 283, 373, 420, 493, 645, 649,
629, 630 ; attends funeral of Arch-
bishop Benson, 94; visit to Ire-
land, 198 ; regrets he cannot visit
New Zealand, 231 ; sympathises
with American Navy on loss
of battleship Maine, 232 ; takes
leave of German Emperor and
Empress, 426 ; at Investiture,
494 ; visit to Germany, 630, 635,
548; attends Duke of Coburg’s
funeral, 680 ; wishes to present
South African War medals in
Australia, 620

Prince Edward of (now H.R!H.

the Prince of Wales), 84, 183, 246,
283, 289

Prince Henry of (now H.R.H.

the Duke of Gloucester), 619

Princess Mary of (now H.R.H.

the Princess Royal, Countess of
Harewood), 164, 245

Zabzibab, death of H,H. the Sultan
of, 69 ; claimants to throne of, 71 ;
loyalty of, 71

Zavertal, Bandmaster, receives Oom-
mission as Lieutenant, 293, 317,
338, 339, 390, 417, 601